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A pioneering Australian biologist who was among the first scientists to grow human embryonic stem cells in a laboratory will lead California's $3-billion effort to translate such research into cures for diseases.

The unexpected announcement that Alan Trounson, 61, director of the Monash Immunology and Stem Cell Laboratories in Melbourne and a founder of the Australian Stem Cell Centre, would be the new president of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine came during a teleconferenced meeting of the institute's oversight board Friday.

Robert Klein II, board chairman and driving force behind Proposition 71, which authorized creation of the institute, praised Trounson for his deep roots in the field, his experience in taking discoveries from the laboratory to the clinic and his "global vision."

Trounson will be paid $490,000, or if the state approves paying his moving expenses, $475,000, Klein said. Under the terms of his contract, he can work part time at a prorated salary for up to six months as he closes down his laboratory.

Trounson wants to start his new job as soon as he works out visa...