Professor Jane Bleasel

Internationally recognised academic and practising rheumatologist, Professor Jane Bleasel is combining academic leadership and experience to deliver innovative medical education to help shape a healthier, happier Australia.

Jane has a wealth of experience spanning several decades. Graduating with an MBBS from Sydney University, Jane subsequently  studied and worked in the beautiful sandstone buildings of the University, paving the way to a varied and challenging career.

Jane was Head of the Department of Rheumatology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for many years before turning her attendion to providing rheumatology services to rural and regional areas, as well as for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, which helped to address a huge gap in medical services and equity.

“Rheumatology is a fascinating specialty where the physician takes on responsibility for an individual with a chronic condition and establishes a trusting relationship which can span three decades,” says Jane.

“The importance of building relationships plus the multidisciplinary nature of rheumatology is what drew me to this specialty and has maintained my love for it.”

Jane’s dedication and hard work has resulted in positive outcomes for many.

“I’ve provided access to new biological therapies for people with rheumatoid arthritis who were disabled by their disease and didn’t have access to specialist rheumatology services,” she says.

“When I see a patient who was previously unable to sleep or work because of arthritic pain but is now leading a productive and full life because of my treatment, I appreciate the importance of providing rural and regional services.”

Taking the lead

Jane joins the University of Newcastle from the Sydney University, where she worked as Sydney Medical School’s Director of the Medical Program since 2015.

“My role was to undertake a major revision of the medical curriculum which was challenging,” says Jane. “I did a lot of consultation both nationally and internationally and had to know and use best practice from the literature to revise the postgraduate course.”

During her time at Sydney University, Jane undertook additional leadership positions, including Director of Academic Education from 2020 and Deputy Head of School in 2021.

Educating others

With a PhD from the University of Sydney in the genetics of osteoarthritis, as well as a Master of Health Professional Education from Monash University, Jane is fully versed in health education and holds teaching close to her heart.

“I’ve been involved in education across the medical spectrum from undergraduate medical students to postgraduate training for physicians and rheumatology advanced training,” says Jane.

“Watching the achievements and progress of students I taught or mentored makes me both proud and excited. I’ve seen people transition from student to registrar and finally to consultant.”

Joining the University of Newcastle in June 2022 as Dean of the Joint Medical Program and Head of the School of Medicine and Public Health, Jane is committed to ensuring that students have the best possible foundations in biomedical science, clinical skills and professionalism and notes that appreciation of diversity and inclusion are central to all medical education.

“My goal is to produce work-ready graduates who are compassionate clinicians, with the ability to function and continue to learn in our rapidly evolving, digital world,” she says.

“I strive to inspire our graduates to serve our community, especially in rural and regional areas. The values of inclusion and emphasis on education of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are what drew me to the University of Newcastle,” says Jane.

I'm hoping that my mentoring and leadership in education and my experience of clinical research will benefit others. It’s a very exciting new phase of my life.”