Terrence Johns, PhD

Dr. Terrence Johns is a celebrated molecular oncologist and a leading global authority in the discovery and advancement of targeted therapeutics for neurological conditions and brain cancers. Currently serving as the Head of Research at Epigenes Australia in Melbourne and maintaining his role as Head of the Oncogenic Signalling Laboratory at the Telethon Kids Institute in Perth, Dr. Johns possesses a uniquely broad perspective spanning both innovative biotechnology and rigorous academic research. He also holds Professorships at the University of Western Australia and La Trobe University. Previously, he served as a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Principal Research Fellow and as the Director of the Telethon Kids Cancer Centre.

Over his expansive career, Dr. Johns has dedicated himself to dissecting the fundamental molecular pathways that drive disease, with early work focusing on multiple sclerosis and a deep, sustained commitment to neuro-oncology. His pioneering research into receptor tyrosine kinases—particularly the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) family—and tumor-specific mutations has led to patented discoveries that have successfully advanced to Phase 3 clinical trials. Recently, he has expanded his innovative approach into behavioral neuroscience, seeking novel treatments for mental health conditions. Dr. Johns earned his PhD from Monash University and subsequently built a formidable reputation as a prolific innovator in therapeutics at the Monash Institute of Medical Research.

As a Scientific Advisor to Curtana Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Johns brings invaluable industry and academic expertise in target identification, molecular pharmacology, and the strategic development of targeted drugs. His profound insight into oncogenic signaling and neurobiology provides Curtana with critical guidance in engineering and refining therapeutic compounds that precisely disrupt the biological engines of brain cancer, maximizing efficacy and accelerating the path to the clinic.