The Royal Society Fellowship has been awarded to Professor Michael Dustin for his contribution to immunology research. His work has established the concept of the immunological synapse that describes how T lymphocytes recognise and respond to target cells. He pioneered the use of fluorescently tagged native molecules from antigen-presenting cells in supported planar bilayers to determine the molecules and pathways that contribute to T cell activation following antigen-recognition. He is also recognised as one of the first to develop imaging approaches to visualise the dynamics of the immune response in tissues. His work has been fundamental to the development of therapies that target the T cell response including in the field of vaccines and immune-oncology.
Commenting on the recognition Professor Dustin said: ‘It is a profound honour to become a fellow of the Royal Society. This is a remarkable privilege and opportunity that I never expected and deeply appreciate. I look forward to doing all I can to help the Royal Society deliver on its priorities.’
Professor Dame Fiona Powrie, Director of the Kennedy Institute said: ‘Mike’s well-deserved recognition by the Royal Society reflects his pioneering research which has taught us so much about T cell activation informing immune therapy approaches for cancer and autoimmune diseases.'