Professor Peter Hunter FRSNZ
Director, Auckland Bioengineering Institute and Chair, Marsden Fund Council
How does DNA make the heart beat?
Science is on an extraordinary journey to map out the secrets of complex biological systems. Over 50 years ago Watson, Crick, Wilkins and Franklin discovered the structure of DNA. Less than 10 years ago the Human Genome project led us to define the genes that code for the myriad of proteins in the human body – the building blocks of life.
We now have a rich source of data but how can we make sense of it? How can it be used to understand cells, tissues and organs? Using mathematical modeling in harmony with biology we are assembling the molecular pieces to create virtual models of human organs including the heart, lungs, musculo-skeletal and gastrointestinal systems.
This lecture will explain the concept of ‘virtual medicine’ and discuss how New Zealand is at the forefront of mapping the incredible functions of the human body.
Professor Peter Hunter was awarded the 2009 Rutherford Medal. He has led the way to creating the virtual human body, making the data freely available to academic institutions around the world. As the director of the Auckland Bioengineering Institute he has shown outstanding leadership in advancing New Zealand biomedical science and engineering.
- Download a copy of the e-flyer: 2010 Rutherford Lecture flyer
(PDF, 108 kB)
Napier
7.30pm Tuesday 10 August
Exhibition Hall, War Memorial Conference Centre, 48 Marine Parade, Napier
Map: http://www.napierwmc.co.nz/
Palmerston North
7.30pm Wednesday 11 August
Speirs Centre, Palmerston North Boys High School, Featherston Street, Palmerston North
Map: http://www.eventfinder.co.nz/venue/spiers-centre-palmerston-north-boys-high-palmerston-north
Wellington
5.30pm Tuesday 24 August
Small Lecture Theatre, Level D, School of Medicine, 23a Mein Street, Newtown, Wellington
(entry to the campus is on Level C)
Map: http://www.wnmeds.ac.nz/admin/conferencentre/venue.html
Nelson
7.30pm Wednesday 22 September
Lecture Theatre A211, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Building, cnr Alton and Hardy Streets, Nelson
These lectures are free and open to the general public
For further information contact Faith Atkins on 04 470 5781
