Prof Peter Barlis

Prof Peter Barlis is an accomplished interventional cardiologist and Professor of Medicine at the University of Melbourne, based in Bundoora, Victoria, Australia. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to the field of cardiovascular disease.

Prof Barlis completed his medical degree (MBBS) at the University of Melbourne and subsequently undertook his cardiology training at Austin Health. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Monash University. Following this, he secured a fellowship and scholarship at the prestigious Royal Brompton Hospital in London, where he conducted his PhD research on the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in cardiology at Erasmus University in the Netherlands.

Prof Barlis is known for his expertise in cardiovascular imaging and the early development of novel therapies. He has played a pivotal role in establishing more than sixty cardiovascular centers across Australia and New Zealand, implementing his innovative approaches. As a specialist in interventional cardiology, he treats patients with various heart conditions, with a particular focus on using stents to address blockages in arteries.

In 2009, Prof Barlis introduced the optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging technique to Australia, revolutionizing the ability to precisely locate areas of disease or cholesterol plaques and assess stents through laser scans of the inner arteries of the heart.

Alongside his clinical work, Prof Barlis leads an active biomedical engineering group dedicated to coronary imaging and modeling. This group focuses on the development of innovative cardiovascular technologies that have the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Prof Barlis has gained recognition through his involvement in leading national and international clinical trials. He has published over 130 peer-reviewed journal articles, authored or edited several textbooks, and frequently appears in media discussions related to advancements in heart disease treatment.

Despite his numerous achievements, Prof Barlis remains humble and maintains a patient-centered approach. He tackles patient treatment with compassion and professionalism, emphasizing a holistic approach. His dedication to advancing the field of cardiology is evident through his role as head of the cardiovascular innovations research team at the University of Melbourne Medical and Engineering Schools, where he consistently secures substantial research funding. Prof Barlis's commitment to improving cardiology globally ensures he continues to make valuable contributions to the field.