Neil Hamilton Fairley

Neil Hamilton Fairley (15 July 1891 – 19 April 1966) was an Australian physician and pathologist who made significant contributions to the field of tropical medicine. He is best known for his research on malaria, which played a crucial role in the health of troops during World War II.

Early life and education

Fairley was born in Inglewood, Victoria, Australia. He attended Scotch College in Melbourne and later studied medicine at the University of Melbourne. After graduating in 1915, he joined the Australian Army Medical Corps and served in World War I.

Career

After the war, Fairley worked at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, where he conducted research on tropical diseases. His work on malaria, in particular, was groundbreaking. He discovered that the disease could be controlled by treating the patient with quinine, a drug that kills the malaria parasite.

During World War II, Fairley's research was instrumental in protecting troops in the Pacific and North Africa. His work saved countless lives and earned him international recognition.

Legacy

Fairley's contributions to medicine have been widely recognized. He was knighted in 1944 for his services to medicine and the war effort. The Neil Hamilton Fairley Medal, awarded by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, is named in his honour.

See also

• List of pathologists
• History of malaria

External links

• Biography at Encyclopedia of Australian Science