Bio21 Institute Director honoured for his contribution to science
5 May 10
Congratulations to Professor Tony Bacic who has been recognized as a James Cook University Outstanding Alumnus. As part of the University's 40th anniversary celebrations, awards were being made to recognize graduates of James Cook University and the University College of Townsville who have made an outstanding contribution in their field of endeavour. The awards were presented as part of the Official Launch of Celebrations. In total 19 graduates were presented the prestigious award.
Professor Tony Bacic graduated his BSc Hons from James Cook University of Nth Queensland in 1975. He moved to Melbourne to attend LaTrobe University where he was awarded his PhD in 1980. In 1996 he was awarded a University of Melbourne Personal Chair in the School of Botany. He currently holds a number of positions including Director of the Plant Cell Biology Research Centre and leads the Australian centre for Plant Functional Genomics at the University of Melbourne. He is the Platform Convener of NCRIS-funded Metabolomics Australia. In 2008 he was elected as Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. Tony's research is focused on the structure, function and biosynthesis of plant cell walls and their biotechnological application as well as the application of functional genomics tools to abiotic stress and productivity in cereals.
In 2008, Professor Bacic was appointed Interim Director of the Bio21 Institute and in October 2009 was appointed as Director for the next five years.
