Curtin Medal for a Nobel Professor
Date:
Thu, 21/06/2012
Spokesperson:
The Australian National University Nobel Laureate and molecular biologist Professor Elizabeth Blackburn will be awarded the Curtin Medal for Excellence in Medical Research at The Australian National University tomorrow morning.
Professor Blackburn has a long and distinguished career as a molecular biologist and was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize for medicine in 2009.
Professor Blackburn pioneered the study of telomeres, caps that protect chromosomes in cells, and is a discoverer of telomerase, an enzyme that does the protecting. Her work has opened a new field of science, raising the possibility of such medical breakthroughs as understanding the ageing process in cells and interfering with cancerous cells.
Tasmanian-born Professor Blackburn completed a biochemistry masters at the University of Melbourne, before undertaking her PhD studies at the University of Cambridge. It was at Yale, as a postdoctoral fellow, that she discovered the nature of the telomere.
Professor Blackburn has been with the University of California, San Francisco, for more than 30 years. Her work there combines clinical research studies with laboratory-based cell and molecular studies. Her other awards include the Albert Lasker award in 2006, often regarded as the American Nobel, and the Australia Prize in 1998.
The Curtin Medal is awarded by The John Curtin School of Medical Research.
To arrange interviews with Professor Blackburn, phone Dr Madeleine Nicol on 0407 278 913. Please note, Professor Blackburn will only be available after 10am for a limited time.
For media assistance: Sarina Talip ANU media – 02 6125 7988 / 0416 249 241
WHAT: Professor Elizabeth Blackburn receiving the Curtin Medal
WHEN: 9.45am, Friday 22 June
WHERE: The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Garran Road
