brett cowan
Brett Cowan
Chief Scientist
ESR

Chief Scientist at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Passion for science leadership and innovation with a background of an MBA, academic career in medical technologies, successful start-up of high-tech ventures, commercialisation of intellectual property, management of international clinical trials, and the international commercialisation of medical software.

Brett completed a full medical training followed by ten years clinical experience as an emergency medicine physician at North Shore hospital before taking on an academic position at the University of Auckland. In this role he developed a research program in medical imaging and medical devices, and setup and directed the world recognised Centre for Advanced MRI (CAMRI) and Auckland MRI Research Group before becoming Head of Radiology. Additionally qualified as a professional mechanical engineer with consulting experience in aeronautical engineering. 

Named inventor on a portfolio of 10 medical and software patents, has won over 30 business and academic prizes including National Innovation in Healthcare, Excellence in the use of IT in Biotechnology, and the ‘Future Directors’ award, and has nearly 100 academic publications. Registered medical practitioner with a current annual practicing certificate with the New Zealand Medical Council. Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging at the University of Auckland.