Australian Nobel Prize and University of Western Australia Professor Robin Warren winner dies
An Australian professor who received the Nobel Prize for his medical research has died.
In 2005, 87-year-old Professor Robin Warren of the University of Western Australia received the prestigious award together with his colleague Professor Barry Marshall.
Their groundbreaking research investigated whether bacteria underlie stomach ulcers and proved that they have a physiological cause.
Professor Marshall consumed bacteria to test his theory, which led to a change in the way stomach ulcers were treated.
He led the outpouring of tributes for his colleague of 42 years.
“Although pathology was not my specialty, I was able to interact with pathologists and microbiologists around the world at a high level because of the training I had received from Robin,” Professor Marshall told the The Western Australian.
‘We have had many adventures together and also won a number of important prizes.’
Professor Warren was born in Adelaide in 1937 and received his medical degree from the University of Adelaide. In 1968 he worked as a pathologist at Royal Perth Hospital.
University of Western Australia professor and Nobel Prize winner Robin Warren, 87, (pictured) has died
Professor Warren’s (pictured) collaborative research into bacteria as a cause of stomach ulcers changed the way they were treated
The two Nobel Prize winners began collaborating on their innovative research in 1981.
The duo proved that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori is the cause of most stomach ulcers.
Professor Warren retired in 1997 following the death of his wife, Winifred, who was a psychiatrist.
In addition to the Nobel Prize, he was also awarded the Knight of the Order of Australia in 2007 for his research work.
Professor Robin Warren was hailed as a medical pioneer by the University of Western Australia
Amit Chakma, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Western Australia, also paid tribute.
“Our university is very proud of Robin Warren and the difference he and Barry Marshall have made in the lives of millions of people around the world through their research,” he said.
‘Robin was a medical pioneer and together with Barry he defied his opponents and dedicated himself to proving a theory that led to better global health outcomes.’
Professor Warren is survived by his five children.