The Ian Constable Lecture, a premier scientific event in Perth, Western Australia, marks its 25th anniversary in 2025.
Since its inception in 2000, the lecture series has been dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting collaboration across disciplines. The event has not only become a highlight in the Lions Eye Institute’s annual calendar but also a tribute to the life and work of Professor Ian Constable AO, an esteemed Australian ophthalmologist and the visionary founder of the Lions Eye Institute.
The Ian Constable Lecture brings together world-leading scientists, researchers, and academics to share their groundbreaking work with the local community. Over the past 25 years, the lecture series has featured some of the brightest minds in science, including three Nobel Laureates, whose insights have enriched the field of medicine, vision science, and beyond.
A tribute to Professor Ian Constable AO Professor Ian Constable’s impact on both the field of ophthalmology and the broader scientific community is immeasurable. As the founder of the Lions Eye Institute, he dedicated his career to improving eye health and advancing medical research. His pioneering work has had lasting effects on the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. It is fitting that the lecture series established in his honour continues to foster scientific inquiry and inspire the next generation of researchers.
A journey through 25 years of scientific discovery
Each year, the Ian Constable Lecture has featured a distinguished guest lecturer, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn about the latest
breakthroughs in science and medicine. From tissue engineering to genomics, from the astounding nature of space and time to the evolution of ideas in medicine, the range of topics covered has been as diverse as the lecturers themselves.
Notable past lecturers have included:
- 2000: Professor Joseph Vacanti (Harvard Medical School) spoke at the inaugural lecture on Tissue engineering: 21st century tissue repair, laying the groundwork for the rapidly developing field of regenerative medicine.
- 2006: Professor Barry Marshall, Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine, shared his revolutionary insights on the ‘Ulcer Bug,’ helping to transform our understanding of the role bacteria play in gastric ulcers.
- 2015: Professor Elizabeth Blackburn, Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine, discussed the implications of telomere maintenance in ageing-related diseases, furthering
our understanding of cellular ageing and longevity. - 2021: Professor Danail Obreschkow (UWA), a theoretical astrophysicist, captivated audiences with his exploration of the astounding nature of space and time, bringing the wonders of the universe closer to home.
At the 2015 Ian Constable Lecture, Nobel Laureate Professor Elizabeth H Blackburn talked about telomeres. She is pictured here with Professor David Mackey AO, Nobel Laureate Professor Barry Marshall and Professor Ian Constable AO (L-R).
A legacy of collaboration with The University of Western Australia (UWA)
The partnership between the Ian Constable Lecture and UWA has been central to the success of the event. Hosted annually at UWA’s prestigious venues, the lecture series has served as a platform for fostering scientific dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration. The UWA community has played a vital role in ensuring that the lecture continues to attract global scientific talent, contributing to Perth’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and research.
Honouring a legacy of scientific excellence
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Ian Constable Lecture, we reflect on its enduring legacy of scientific excellence, education, and collaboration. This milestone is not just a celebration of the past, but a reminder of the continued importance of scientific inquiry in shaping a better future for all.
The lecture series has continually provided a forum for stimulating ideas and innovation, furthering the mission of the Lions Eye Institute and contributing knowledge to the broader
scientific community. Looking forward, the Ian Constable Lecture will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of researchers, healthcare professionals, and the public to push the boundaries of what is possible in science and medicine.
