National Academy of Science Member, Alumnus to Speak at UA

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Dr. Michael B.A. Oldstone, a National Academy of Sciences member and University of Alabama alumnus, will speak on the UA campus as part of a lecture series April 19-22 on how viral epidemic diseases have changed human history.

The lecture series is free and open to the public. All lectures will take place at 7 p.m. in room 222 of Lloyd Hall.

Oldstone is a professor and head of the viral-immunobiology laboratory in the department of immunology and microbial science at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, Calif.

He began an appointment as a UA visiting professor and scholar-in-residence in the department of biological science this 2009-2010 academic year.

Oldstone’s visit is sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, New College, the department of biological sciences and the department of history.

“In the 21^stcentury West, we tend to displace or repress the dramatic influence smallpox, yellow fever, measles and polio have had on the shape of our experience,” said Dr. Jim Hall, director of New College. “Distinguished immunologist and M.D. Michael Oldstone will help shape an extended conversation at The University of Alabama on the role of disease in historical change and the potential role of Ebola, influenza and AIDS on our future.”

In addition to Oldstone, two faculty members from the department of history will present lectures.

Dr. Amy Holmes-Tagchungdarpa, assistant professor, will speak on the cultural reaction and representation of smallpox and other diseases in Tibetan history. Dr. Lawrence Clayton, professor, will speak on disease in the conquest of Mexico.

The schedule of lectures is as follows:

Monday, April 19

Dr. Michael Oldstone

“Smallpox, the Greatest Infectious Disease Killer of All Time, Its History in Changing the Politics, Governance and Culture of Europe and the United States.”

Tuesday, April 20

Dr. Lawrence A. Clayton

“General Smallpox and the Conquest of Mexico: Myth and Reality in History”

Wednesday, April 21

Dr. Amy Holmes-Tagchungdarpa

“Responses to Smallpox in Historical Tibet: Lamas, Magic and Biological Warfare”

Thursday, April 22

Dr. Michael Oldstone

“Smallpox infection: Its Taming and Elimination from Our Planet, Its Past Use in Biologic Warfare and the Question of Its Return.”

Oldstone was one of 72 scientists in 2008 elected to the National Academy of Sciences—one of the most prestigious honor societies in the world recognizing scientists who have made monumental achievements in original research.

Oldstone, who is considered to be one of the top experts in neurology and viral biology worldwide, has received many national and international awards in addition to his membership in the National Academy of Sciences.

He is the author of the book “Viruses, Plagues, and History,” which addresses a number of global events precipitated by viruses and mortal illnesses. Oldstone graduated from UA in 1954 with a degree in biology.

The College of Arts and Sciences is the University’s largest division and the largest liberal arts college in the state. Students from the College have won numerous national awards including Rhodes Scholarships, Goldwater Scholarships and memberships on the USA Today Academic All American Team.