Nobel Laureate, Professor Peter Doherty to speak at a special lecture at the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Belfast
The Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in association with the Ulster Immunology Group (UIG) is hosting a special lecture entitled “Science Protects Humanity: Adventures in Infection and Immunity” on Wednesday 27 June 2012. The lecture will be given by Peter Doherty, Laureate Professor at the University of Melbourne.
Nobel Laureate Professor Peter Doherty who will speak at a Lecture entitled “Science Protects Humanity: Adventures in Infection and Immunity” being held at AFBI Headquarters.
Professor Doherty is a veterinary graduate of the University of Queensland and completed his PhD at the University of Edinburgh. He is the only living Nobel laureate with a veterinary background, having been awarded the Nobel Prize in 1996 for work in cellular immunology in relation to viral infection. He played a pivotal role in the global eradication of rinderpest and has also conducted extensive work in relation to the virology and immunology of influenza infections of humans and animals. He splits his time between the University of Melbourne (Australia) and St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis (USA).
The presentation will encompass topics including global infectious diseases, systems biology and climate science, illustrated with experiences from throughout Professor Doherty’s impressive career. Speaking about the forthcoming event, CEO of AFBI, Professor Seamus Kennedy said, “We are delighted that Professor Doherty is able to take time out of his busy schedule and visit Belfast to speak to us. We look forward to welcoming colleagues from DARD, Queen’s University and other stakeholder and industry groups to the lecture.”
Simon Doherty, a Veterinary Research Officer in AFBI and its representative on the Ulster Immunology Group coordinated the invitation to Professor Doherty said “In addition to his extensive track record in the international scientific community, Peter is renowned for being a very motivational and inspirational speaker. When we heard that he was going to be in Europe in June, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to invite him to speak in Belfast.”
Anyone who would like to attend the lecture at 2pm on Wednesday 27 June at AFBI Headquarters, Newforge Lane, Belfast should contact Sharon Spence on 02890 255 228 or by email to
sharon.spence@afbini.gov.uk
