Peter Gluckman

Peter Gluckman ONZ (cropped)

Peter Gluckman

Sir Peter David Gluckman (born 1949) is a prominent New Zealand scientist who has made significant contributions to the fields of pediatrics, endocrinology, and developmental biology. He is known for his research on fetal development and the long-term consequences of early life events on health and disease.

Early Life and Education

Peter Gluckman was born in Auckland, New Zealand. He attended Auckland Grammar School and later studied at the University of Otago, where he earned his medical degree. He completed his postgraduate training in pediatrics and endocrinology.

Career

Gluckman began his academic career at the University of Auckland, where he established the Liggins Institute, named after his mentor, Sir Graham Liggins. The institute focuses on research in developmental biology and maternal-fetal medicine. Gluckman has published extensively on topics such as fetal programming, growth hormone therapy, and the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD).

Research Contributions

Gluckman's research has significantly advanced the understanding of how early life events influence long-term health outcomes. His work on fetal programming has shown that the environment during pregnancy can affect the risk of developing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life. He has also contributed to the understanding of growth hormone and its role in child development.

Honors and Awards

Peter Gluckman has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science, including being appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2009. He has also been elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of London and the Royal Society of New Zealand.

Public Service

In addition to his research, Gluckman has been actively involved in public service. He served as the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2009 to 2018. In this role, he provided scientific advice on a wide range of issues, including climate change, public health, and education.

Personal Life

Peter Gluckman is married and has two children. He continues to be active in research and public service, contributing to the scientific community in New Zealand and internationally.

See Also

• Developmental biology
• Endocrinology
• Pediatrics
• Fetal programming
• Growth hormone