[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Kelton.John.01.jpg” caption=”John Kelton”]John G. Kelton has been appointed as the new vice-president and dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences.

His appointment for a five-year term begins July 1.

“Dr. Kelton has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to McMaster since his arrival in 1977,” said McMaster President Peter George. “His significant research record, his excellent leadership as chair of the Department of Medicine at a critical stage of its development, and his strong, constructive vision of the future of the Faculty of Health Sciences and its partner institutions made him the unanimous choice of the selection committee.”

Educated at the University of Western Ontario medical school, Kelton has developed a national and international reputation in the study of thrombosis and hematology.

He has pioneered tests to diagnose and treat platelet and bleeding conditions that are now used around the world. His studies have significantly enhanced the understanding of blood illnesses and led to new ways to diagnose and treat them.

“I am honoured that President George and the other members of the selection committee have entrusted this significant responsibility to me,” Kelton said. “The Faculty of Health Sciences, with its schools of medicine, nursing and rehabilitation science, as well as its other programs, represents an outstanding resource of skilled and knowledgeable clinicians, educators, scientists and students.

“I look forward to working with these colleagues to ensure we continue our innovative approach to health care and reputation for excellence. We must also further strengthen the relationship between the University and its regional and other partners so that the citizens of Hamilton and Ontario continue to benefit from the advances in health care pioneered at McMaster.”

Kelton is an elected member of both the Canadian and American Societies for Clinical Investigation, and was this year's winner of the Scripps Cancer Foundation's Bernard L. Schwartz Award and Lectureship.

He is a member of the scientific review committee of the American Society of Hematology and is on the College of Reviewers for the Canada Research Chairs program.

Kelton's research credentials are more than matched by his administrative experience.

He is currently chair of the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and previously served as chief of medicine, McMaster Medical Centre.

He also acts as scientific advisor to the Canadian Blood Services. He has held a number of administrative positions within the Faculty of Health Sciences, including head of the Hematology Residency Training Program and director for the Regional Hematology Group. He was appointed chair of the Department of Medicine in 1997.

“Kelton's understanding of the University, the Faculty, its students, its affiliated teaching hospitals and other community organizations is a tremendous asset,” added President George. “His experience and skills will help to enhance the synergy between the Faculty's basic and clinical scientists and will build on the Faculty's capacity to deliver its educational, research and service mission successfully.”