Professor Sharon Lewin Named Melburnian of the Year

The Melbourne Awards honour a diverse range of contributions, focusing on individuals, communication organisations and groups who work tirelessly for the benefit of the city.
‘Melburnian of the Year’ is a title awarded to an inspirational individual within the Melbourne community. It is selected by a committee of notable Melburnians appointed by the Lord Mayor.
Professor Lewin is an internationally renowned researcher in HIV and was the local co-chair of the 20th International Aids Conference. Before joining The Doherty Institute Professor Lewin was head of the Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University and co-head of the Centre for Biomedical Research, Burnet Institute.
Laureate Professor Peter Doherty, for whom the Doherty Institute is named, congratulated Professor Lewin.
“Sharon is an outstanding Melburnian and continues to make a remarkable contribution to science through her research in HIV, as well as for mentoring and inspiring younger generations to follow in her footsteps,” he said.
“We’re proud to have her at the helm of the Doherty Institute, and we’re all committed to continuing excellence research and clinical practice for Melbourne and beyond.”
University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Professor Glyn Davis also expressed delight that the Melburnian of the Year was associated with the Doherty Institute.
“It’s a great honour and due recognition for the outstanding contribution Professor Lewin makes to the field of infectious disease and immunity,” he said.
The Lord Mayor Robert Doyle paid tribute to Professor Lewin and the remarkable achievements of her career so far.
“It gives me great pleasure to bestow the honour of 2014 Melburnian of the Year to Professor Sharon Lewin who is one of the world’s most influential campaigners and researchers working towards a cure for HIV,” Mr Doyle said.