Photo: supplied
Professor Julian Paton is a leading heart researcher and director of the University of Auckland Heart Research Centre, as well as the national Centre of Research Excellence, Pūtahi Manawa. His research focuses on the connections between the brain and the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Some of his discoveries have resulted in first-in-human trials for treating neurogenic hypertension, sleep apnoea and heart failure. In his spare time, Professor Paton restores and drives vintage Land Rovers, including the oldest Land Rover in the country - a 1948 Series I - nicknamed "20" after its serial number.
Earlier this year he drove it from Dunedin to Auckland raising money for heart valve research to assist children with Rheumatic Heart Disease. Professor Paton tells Kathryn Ryan that 17 day trip has been life changing.
