The University is saddened to learn of the passing of Emeritus Professor Alan McCarthy. Alan was a Professor of Microbiology of the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences at the University of Liverpool and a Trustee of Cara (the Council for At-Risk Academics) from 2006 – 2024.
Professor McCarthy joined the University in 1985 as a lecturer in the Microbiology Department. He was a former Head of Undergraduate Admissions for the School of Life Sciences and Chairman of postgraduate selection committee for the Institute of Integrative Biology.
As a Cara Trustee, he served as Chair of the Grant Allocation Committee of Cara’s UK Programme until 2016 before taking on the role of Honorary Secretary, and served finally as the Chair from 2023-2024.
Professor Nicola Williams, Deputy Executive Dean, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences said:
“Alan played a pivotal role in my academic life, guiding me during my early days as an undergraduate student when he was my tutor, through his mentorship, encouragement, and unwavering support. He was also an excellent teacher and his passion for all things microbiological was clear whenever he taught. I still fondly remember his teaching and how it influenced my own pursuit of a career in microbiology.
“He will be fondly remembered for his sharp wit and infectious sense of humour, which brought light to any situation. Alan was not only a source of inspiration to many but also a mentor whose support transcended the professional sphere, leaving a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and generosity. His loss will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege to know him.”
Professor Matthew Baylis from the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences added:
“I am deeply saddened to hear of Alan’s death. Alan contributed hugely in terms of teaching, his research in microbial ecology, and a large number of collegiate activities during some 33 years at the University. Significantly, Alan will be remembered as a hugely supportive mentor by many staff. His caring and supportive nature was also demonstrated in later years by his strong commitment to CARA. Alan will be deeply missed.”
There are two distinct charities that Alan supported, Cara and Shrewsbury House Youth Club. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate a donation to one of these charities.
Donations, pictures, personal stories and messages to the family can all be added and viewed at the dedicated website: alan-mccarthy.muchloved.com or via the below QR code:
