Honorary Doctor of Science awarded to research and industry leaders
Emeritus Professor Peter Langridge
Four scientific leaders will be awarded honorary doctorates from the University of Adelaide in recognition of outstanding contribution to their respective fields of science.
The University will hold 25 graduation ceremonies in historic Bonython Hall across April and May, with more than 5100 conferrals of academic programs to new graduates. The University will award a total of 10 honorary doctorates, including a prestigious Doctor of Science to:
Ms Pamela Ann Dunsford OAM
Degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) in recognition of her pioneering work in Australian winemaking, blazing a trail for women winemakers and championing the South Australian wine industry in a career spanning more than 40 years. Pam completed a degree in biochemistry and horticulture at the University. Then in 1973 she pursued education in oenology, becoming the first female student at Roseworthy Agricultural College.
Emeritus Professor Geoffrey Bruce Fincher AO
Degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) in recognition of Geoffrey's distinguished career as a global leader in cereals research, and his work into the structure, biosynthesis, and digestion of plant cell walls, which has fundamentally changed the understanding of plant science. Between 2003 and 2010 he was Director of the Waite Agricultural Research Institute and most recently the director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls.
Dr Stephen Paul Jefferies AM
Degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) in recognition of his significant contribution to Australian agricultural excellence through education, research, and industry development, in a career spanning more than 35 years. Stephen is a University of Adelaide alumnus at both undergraduate and PhD level, and has led key research projects at the University and South Australian Research and Development Institute.
Emeritus Professor Peter Langridge
Degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) in recognition of Peter's pioneering work in the field of plant genomics, and his enormous contribution to improving agricultural production in South Australia and beyond over his 30-year career. Peter has held numerous national and international leadership roles and continues to be involved in research at the University's Waite campus.
Jason Able, Head of the University's Department of Agricultural Science says these careers have been nothing short of distinguished and influential.
"On behalf of the School of Agriculture, Food & Wine, we wish to extend our sincere congratulations to the recipients who are being awarded a Doctor of Science," Professor Able says.
"These awards are testament and due recognition for the wonderful scientific research careers, leadership, and mentorship that each of these individuals have provided over the years to so many – not just here in Adelaide but globally."
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Hoj AC says, “graduation ceremonies represent the culmination of our students’ hard work and talent, and our staff’s contribution to their learning. They also represent future prosperity and success for our graduates, and for our community.
“Our graduation ceremonies also provide the University with an opportunity to recognise outstanding leaders in their fields, who are to be applauded for their contributions to industry, government, innovation, and to society at large. Many of them are graduates of our University who have gone on to have exceptional careers and have served their nation with distinction,” Professor Hoj says.
All of the University of Adelaide’s graduation ceremonies can be watched live online. School of Agriculture, Food and Wine graduations are scheduled for 3pm ACST on Friday 16 April.