Professor David Back from the University’s Institute of Translational Medicine was presented with a prestigious award in recognition of his contributions to research into HIV and Aids.
The Recognition for Major Lifetime Contributions to the Field of HIV/AIDS award was presented to Professor Back at the European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS) conference in Spain, which brings together scientists from across Europe to exchange the latest information on the clinical aspects of the disease.
Major contribution
During the ceremony Dr Catia Marzolini of Basle spoke of the major contribution made by Professor Back and the Liverpool HIV Pharmacology Group to the management of HIV+ patients through key basic and clinical studies from the beginning of the HIV epidemic in the 1980’s.
Dr Marzolini also highlighted the outstanding ‘Liverpool’ drug interaction websites for both HIV and Hepatitis as the ‘go to’ resources for Infectious Diseases and Hepatology clinics around the world.
Professor Back received his award from Professor Manuel Battegay – president of EACS and was congratulated by Professor Michel Kazatchkine, UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy on HIV/AIDS.
Testimony to outstanding researchers
Of the award Professor Back said: “To receive such an award is testimony to the many outstanding researchers who have been part of the HIV Group and to successful collaborations nationally and internationally.
“When I was appointed to the academic staff in 1973 the first cases of HIV/AIDS were still eight years off.
“The Liverpool HIV Group was formed soon after and has been involved in basic and clinical studies with every one of the 26 licensed drugs for treating HIV. The work of the team has made, and continues to make, a massive contribution to optimising patient management.”
For more information about EACS please visit http://bit.ly/1O5lCGz.
