Dr Dennis Gillings will talk about some of the key global health challenges ahead.
Global health challenges under the spotlight
One of the University of Exeter’s most successful alumni is returning to deliver a special lecture on the global health challenges we face in the 21st century.
Dr Dennis Gillings CBE is a leading figure in the global bio-pharma industry, being the founder and CEO of Quintiles, the biggest pharmaceutical services company in the world.
During the talk, Dr Gillings will discuss some of the big issues ahead — such as the soaring cost of treating dementia in an ageing population, as well as the vital role clinical trials can play in helping to tackle these problems.
The talk, part of the Shaping the Future series, will be held on Monday 18 October at 6.15pm in Newman A lecture theatre in the Peter Chalk building on the University’s Streatham Campus.
It is freely open to the public, but those wanting to attend should register in advance by contacting Margaret House-Hayes on 01392 725769 or email events@exeter.ac.uk
Dr Gillings originates from the East End of London and was the first person in his family to go to university. He earned both a Bachelor’s Degree and PhD in Mathematics from the University of Exeter, then worked briefly as a lecturer before founding Quintiles in 1982.
The company started as a consulting service in statistics and data management for the pharmaceutical industry, but quickly grew in size as it established a strong reputation.
Today it is the largest pharmaceutical services company in the world. As of 2008, it had 23,000 employees in 60 countries and has helped develop or commercialise all of the top 30 best-selling drugs on the market.
Dr Gillings is a great believer in the importance of pharmaceuticals in the health industry, and his company works hard to speed up the process for producing new drugs which can deliver genuine benefits.
He has authored or participated in more than 80 publications and over 60 keynote presentations or public lectures.
He holds numerous influential appointments and his work has brought him international recognition. He was also awarded the CBE in June 2004.
The Shaping the Future lecture series is provided in partnership with the Met Office and the University of Exeter. It aims to bring business, science and the community together, providing a forum for distinguished speakers to present their views on major public issues which shape our lives, both economically and socially.
Date: 12 October 2010
