Some of the world’s leading researchers in HIV will converge on UNSW for the launch of the Kirby Institute’s new facilities and a major symposium on the global challenges in infectious disease.

The NSW Minister for Health and Medical Research, Jillian Skinner, will officially open the new headquarters on the UNSW campus on Wednesday 16 July.

The new facilities mark a significant shift for researchers who for decades were based around Darlinghurst, the epicentre of Sydney’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.

Among the dignitaries attending is French Nobel laureate Professor Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, who co-discovered HIV as the cause of AIDS. UNSW will confer on Professor Barré-Sinoussi an Honorary Doctorate of Medicine, honoris causa.

The building launch will be followed by the Kirby Institute’s one-day symposium Global Challenges in Infectious Disease (Thursday 17 July).

Presenters include Professor Barré-Sinoussi, Australian Nobel laureate Peter Doherty and Kirby Institute Director Professor David Cooper

Other symposium highlights include:

  • Release of Annual Surveillance Report on HIV & Annual Report of Trends in Behaviour
  • Panel discussion: Condemn the condoms: The drugs are all we need to prevent HIV (facilitated by ABC Radio National’s Dr Norman Swan)

What: Kirby Institute launch and Global Challenges in Infectious Disease symposium

When: Launch:  4pm, Wed 16 July. Symposium:  9-5pm, Thurs 17 July 2014

Where: Launch: Kirby Institute, Wallace Wurth Building. Symposium: John Niland Scientia Building, UNSW Kensington Campus

Media contact: Susi Hamilton, UNSW Media, 0422 934 024

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The revamped Wallace Wurth building, new home to the Kirby Institute

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