Jason Passioura (1966-2022) is remembered as a kind and deeply generous person, who contributed positively to the world around him. A valued member of the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH), Jason was a passionate health researcher with an exceptional commitment to data integrity and accuracy. 

In tribute to Jason's legacy, we proudly introduce the Jason Passioura Bursary: Promoting excellence in data acquisition and analysis. 

Open to professional staff, academics and students at NCEPH, the Bursary will be awarded yearly to support others to uphold Jason’s focus on improving the quality of source data and commitment to advancing health research through excellence in data acquisition and analysis. 

“I think the bursary will be a nice way to remember him and the value he placed on good quality data,” shares friend and colleague Michael Hewitt.

“It reflects Jason’s fundamental principle that if you don’t have good quality data to start with, or don’t understand how the data is generated, then whatever you find out is not going to be a sound product or answer.” 

The Bursary recognises Jason’s outstanding contribution to research, in particular his collaboration with the Black Dog Institute in using spatial analysis to inform suicide prevention. 

“Jason’s work is highly regarded, his contribution to spatial precision regarding suicide hotspots made a difference to restricting suicide in notable locations.” remarks friend and colleague Paul Konings, “This work was relevant, important and influential, and Jason’s role was significant.” 

Matthew Phillips from the Black Dog Institute recalls how Jason’s incredible eye for detail transformed the way they use data, ensuring more accurate identification of locations of interest. 

Jason’s tireless work with suicide data from 2016 resulted in urban planning changes that supported numerous suicide prevention initiatives. 

Sadly, Jason passed away in 2022 after battling Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) brain cancer for 16 months. He is deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues. 

“I think anybody who didn’t meet Jason missed out. He was a deeply generous person and didn’t expect any recognition for it. He truly contributed to the world around him,” says Michael. 

Let’s honour Jason's memory by continuing his legacy of passion and excellence.

Applications to the Jason Passioura Bursary in 2024 are now open until 5pm on 30 April 2024. Please visit the Bursary page for more information about the Bursary and Jason. 

You can make a donation to the Bursary funds through this page.