Associate Professor Sjaan Koppel appointed President of AAAM
The Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) is proud to announce that Associate Professor Sjaan Koppel has been named President of the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM), a globally recognised authority dedicated to eliminating road traffic injuries through scientific research, education, and policy.
As the first behavioural scientist to lead the organisation, Associate Professor Koppel’s appointment marks a significant milestone for AAAM and the broader road safety community. With over two decades of experience in road safety research, Sjaan has been a driving force at MUARC since 2004, and now leads the Behavioural Science team and champions the protection of vulnerable road users, including older adults and children.
Reflecting on her appointment, Associate Professor Koppel said,
“It’s an honour to take on this role and to contribute my experience and expertise to advancing AAAM’s mission. I’m excited to focus on three I’s - strengthening interdisciplinary research, expanding international engagement, and championing innovative thinking among the next generation of leaders in automotive medicine.”
Her presidency begins at a pivotal time for AAAM, as the organisation continues to advance its mission to reduce road trauma, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, through collaboration and evidence-based action. The organisation welcomed her leadership with enthusiasm, recognising her longstanding commitment to road safety and her dedication to empowering students, early-career researchers, and practitioners across the field.
MUARC Director Professor Stuart Newstead congratulated Associate Professor Koppel on this prestigious appointment, “Sjaan’s leadership reflects the excellence and global impact of MUARC’s research. Her presidency is a proud moment for our Centre and a well-earned recognition of her contributions to road safety science.”
Sjaan was presented with the Spirit of Ecstasy. Traditionally passed from one AAAM President to the next, the Spirit of Ecstasy symbolises leadership, progress, and the pursuit of excellence in automotive medicine. The handover marks the formal transition of leadership and celebrates AAAM’s enduring mission to advance research, innovation, and global collaboration in reducing road trauma.