One of the University of Tasmania’s most promising young researchers has been chosen for recognition at a global gathering of Nobel Laureates in June.

Dr Yuan Zhou, a post-doctoral researcher at the university’s Menzies Institute for Medical Research under the mentorship of Prof Bruce Taylor, is one of eight rising stars selected to attend the highly prestigious annual gathering of Nobel Laureates and promising young scientists from around the world.

The Director of Menzies, Professor Alison Venn, said this recognition from the Australian Academy of Science and the Council for the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“Yuan will be joining almost 600 other scientists under the age of 35 to present his research identifying genetic variants and environmental factors that influence the development of multiple sclerosis,” Professor Venn said.

“Not only will this be an invaluable experience for him personally to have access to some of the brightest research minds around the world, it also showcases the exciting developments Menzies has been making in MS research.”

Since 1998 Menzies has been at the forefront of some of the most important MS research and advancements in the world.

Menzies researchers and their collaborators have made significant contributions to understanding the genetic, environmental and lifestyle risk factors for both the development and progression of MS.

This has included publishing key papers showing for the first time that higher levels of personal UV exposure are associated with a reduced risk of MS, that people with MS have concerning high rates of Vitamin D deficiency and that higher Vitamin D levels are associated with fewer MS relapses.

Dr Zhou said he was excited and proud to be attending the meeting in Lindau, Germany which is setting a record for the most ever Nobel Laureates at a medicine meeting.
“Like my colleagues, the work I do is not for personal recognition but it will be an excellent opportunity to meet other scientists from around the world and share our knowledge and experiences.

Photo: Peter Mathew

Contact: Angela Wilson

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