Podcast Episode 97

Professor Sharon Lewin AO FRACP FAHMS

Sharon Lewin is a remarkable woman. 

For a start, she has been heading up two global pandemics. Simultaneously. 

 In 1989 Dr Lewin (as she then was), instead of seeking a medical appointment in some prestigious city hospital, chose to work in a small hospital in Kenya. It was here she became passionate about infectious diseases, specifically HIV. And it would be a path she continues to tread to this day. She’s determined to find the cure. 

 In 2014, she was appointed Director of the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity and her research focuses on why HIV persists, and on developing clinical trials aimed at finding that cure. She’s delivered more than 100 talks internationally and has published 280-plus papers. 

Whilst doing all that her other role in this field is as the President of the International Aids Society. A huge organisation which ‘convenes, educates and advocates for a world in which HIV no longer presents a threat to public health and individual well-being.’ I believe there are about 14,000 members of the IAS.

Oh, she’s also been a leader and spokesperson for the Covid response since about January 2020 when her team were the 1st in the world to isolate, grow and then share the virus with other nations. Her ongoing education of others in this area has been a much wanted voice of reason with a steadying hand on the tiller. 

It was a privilege having a conversation with someone so focussed on helping humanity. It was an informative, down to earth and, at times, very funny chat.

Head to the podcast to have a listen. The link is in my bio.

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