Regis Mary Dunne

Sister Regis Mary Dunne RSM (9 November 1926 – 20 April 2020) was an Australian scientist and Sister of Mercy, considered to be a pioneer in the field of genetics and bioethics.

Early life and education Born in Toowoomba, Queensland, Sister Regis went to St Saviour's Primary School before attending All Hallows' School in Brisbane.

Also in 1949, Sister Regis commenced training as a medical laboratory scientist by studying part-time at the Queensland Institute of Technology while working as a trainee biochemist at the Mater Hospital. Also that year, her work was recognised at the National Health and Medical Research Council Awards for Excellence in Health and Medical Research where she was presented with an Outstanding Contribution Award.

Death and legacy Sister Regis died on 20 April 2020, prompting a number of tributes from the medical and scientific community.

In 2021, she was posthumously named as a Queensland Great.