Transforming Biology: A History of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Melbourne

Description

Transforming Biology is the story of the people who have made an enormous contribution to Australian science and wellbeing around the world. Transforming Biology opens a window on the lives and work of the scientists, teachers and students who have contributed to the achievements of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Melbourne. Established in 1938, the department teaches and undertakes research in a discipline that links chemistry, physiology, genetics, microbiology, virology and physics, and has championed new techniques and biotechnology innovations that reverberate around the world. Highlighting the successful careers of many of its alumni and staff, including the influential Victor Trikojus, and the impact of benefactors such as Russell Grimwade, Juliet Flesch tells the story of the evolution of a department engaged in fundamental biomolecular science, as well as the translation of discoveries to industry and the clinic. It has been one of the most important national and international bodies engaged in transforming biology.

Juliet Flesch is an Honorary Fellow in the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies at the University of Melbourne. The daughter of a teacher-librarian and the owner of the Austral Bookshop in Collins Street, she spent thirteen years at the National Library of Australia and a further nineteen as the foundation Principal Librarian (Collections) at the University, before becoming a professional historian. Her books include a history of Australian popular romance novels of the first half of the 20th century, From Australia with Love, and a number of university histories- Minding the Shop, Life's Logic and 160 Years/160 Stories. She is currently working on a publication to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the United Nations International Women's Year.