Rutherford Medal – for an exceptional contribution to New Zealand society in science and technology: awarded by the Royal Society of New Zealand to Professor Peter John Hunter FRSNZ of The University of Auckland
Citation: Professor Peter John Hunter FRSNZ has pioneered a new approach to modelling the human body using simulations that span biological levels all the way from genes to the whole organ. He has shown outstanding leadership in advancing New Zealand biomedical science and engineering.
Description of work: Outstanding research by Professor Peter Hunter of The University of Auckland was recognised by the Royal Society of New Zealand’s highest scientific prize, the 2009 Rutherford Medal for science and technology. As a biomedical engineer, his work combines engineering, mathematical and computational tools to model the human body. Professor Hunter initiated and led the development of mathematical modelling techniques that are providing the computational basis for a virtual human, right down to the genetic level. His ground-breaking research will eventually help advance treatments for a number of life-threatening diseases. The award acknowledges Professor Hunter’s outstanding leadership of the Bioengineering Institute, as well as his efforts in promoting and advancing the field, both at home and abroad.
