Renowned Brain Researcher Sir Richard Faull Retires After Decades

Renowned brain researcher Sir Richard Faull has officially retired from his role as the director of the Centre for Brain Research at the University of Auckland, an institute he founded in 2009. His departure marks the end of an extraordinary career that has significantly impacted the field of neuroscience over several decades.

Faull, who hails from Taranaki, has been influential in the advancement of brain research, leading a team of over 500 scientists, clinicians, and engineers at the centre. His work has contributed to understanding critical neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s disease, and epilepsy.

A Journey Rooted in Taranaki

Born and raised in Tikorangi, Faull developed a passion for science during his time at Waitara High School. Influenced by his upbringing and his parents, Wilfred and Phyllis Faull, who owned a grocery store, he has often expressed gratitude for his early education and support from the local community. His connection to Taranaki has remained strong throughout his career.

Faull’s academic journey continued at New Plymouth Boys’ High School, where he earned the Taranaki Scholarship that enabled him to pursue studies at the University of Otago. Graduating in 1970, he furthered his education in the United States, specializing in brain research at prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT.

In 1994, Faull founded the Neurological Foundation Human Brain Bank in Auckland, which has been integral to neurological research for over 30 years. The brain bank provides invaluable resources for studying various diseases, significantly enhancing the understanding of brain health and disorders.

Honors and Legacy

At the age of 80, Faull’s contributions to neuroscience were recognized when he was knighted in 2017. More recently, in 2023, he received a ceremonial korowai and tokotoko named Aumangea, symbolizing strength, leadership, and wisdom. These were gifted to him by Rangi Bailey of Ngāti Rāhiri in acknowledgment of his work with Māori in the field of brain research. Additionally, Faull was awarded an honorary doctorate of science from the University of Otago in December 2022.

While Faull has stepped back from full-time duties at the Centre for Brain Research, he will transition to an ambassadorial role, continuing to inspire future generations in neuroscience. His successor, Professor Hanneke Hurst from the University of Leiden in the Netherlands, will take on the directorship, ensuring that the centre maintains its high standards of research and innovation.

As he concludes this chapter of his career, Sir Richard Faull leaves behind a legacy of excellence in brain research, significantly contributing to the scientific community and the understanding of neurological health.