Canberra, Wednesday 14 November, 2001

Barry Jones launches history of Australian scientific breakthroughs at ANU

Ever wondered how nerve impulses are transmitted between cells in the brain? Can you name the Australian scientists who conducted research into smallpox? Do you know what transplantation antigens are? Would you like to find out how close Australian researchers are to finding a vaccine for HIV and who discovered a link between SIDS and a life-threatening sensitivity to anaesthetics?

The answers to these and many other intriguing scientific questions are in a new book detailing the history of the John Curtin Medical School at The Australian National University to be launched by former Science Minister and ALP President Dr Barry Jones on Thursday 15 November at The Australian National University.

The John Curtin School of Medical Research: The First Fifty Years, 1948-1998, offers a rare insight into the institutional history of the school, as well as detailed essays by past and present staff members. The history was written and the essays collated by renowned scientists Professors Frank Fenner and David Curtis, both former Heads of Department and Directors of the School.

"Researchers at the ANU have accomplished so much in the scientific and medical worlds," Professor Fenner said. "We've helped curb the spread of deadly diseases across the world, three of our scientists have been awarded Nobel Prizes for work done right here in Canberra, 15 have been elected Fellows of the Royal Society of London, 35 elected as Fellows of the Australian Academy of Science and we've trained 526 PhD graduates."

Former Federal Health Minister Dr Michael Wooldridge, ACT Senator Margaret Reid; ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Chubb; JCSMR Director Professor Judith Whitworth and former directors, scientists and PhD students will attend Thursday's launch.

For more information contact: Dr Peter Jeffrey (JCSMR) on 02 6125 3652 or Leah Slattery, Media Liaison Officer on 02 6125 5001 or 6125 6125

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The Australian National University.
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Last Modified Tue, July 16, 2002