Professor Michael Alphers, photo courtesy of PNGIMR.
Burnet Institute would like to extend our deepest condolences regarding the death of Professor Michael Alpers AO FRS.
Professor Alpers dedicated much of his life to advancing public health and medical science, which have left a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of countless communities in Papua New Guinea and around the world.
Professor Alpers served as Director of the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNGIMR) from 1977 to 2000, where he laid the foundations for the Institute's continued success as the leading medical research organisation in Melanesia. His deeply caring and inquisitive nature inspired generations of Papua New Guinean clinicians and scientists to dedicate their careers to addressing the unmet health needs of their communities, creating a legacy of lasting progress in healthcare.
He established the Buttressing Coalition, a supportive network of partners and advocates for PNGIMR, ensuring the Institute receives the support and resources needed to advance public health and medical research.
Professor Alpers was deeply respected in the scientific community and received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society, the Australian Academy of Science and the Third World Academy of Science. He was appointed Officer of Order of Australia in 2005 and in 2008 was awarded Companion of the Papua New Guinean Star of Melanesia (CSM).
We extend our condolences to his partner Prof Deborah Lehmann, his 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, as well as other family, friends and colleagues.