A renowned molecular biologist has died aged 50 after a lengthy battle with the very disease he was committed to finding a cure for.
Professor Justin Yerbury died at the weekend after a fight with motor neurone disease (MND), the University of Wollongong confirmed in a statement.
The award-winning professor led global research into the disease and is remembered as an “enduring symbol” in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases.
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“He was a beacon of hope, transforming personal adversity into a mission of unwavering positivity,” UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Patricia Davidson said.
“Despite grappling with motor neurone disease (MND) himself, Justin made significant strides in understanding and treating this devastating condition.”
Davidson said Yerbury’s “relentless pursuit of knowledge” provided hope for many affected by MND.
“Justin’s legacy is one that reflects not only his immense courage and commitment but also his spirit of optimism, which will undoubtedly continue to inspire us all,” she said.
University of Wollongong Professor Justin Yerbury has died.
Credit: Mark Nersham /UOW Facebook
Yerbury began studying the rare condition in 2002 after discovering a family history of the disease.
His mother, grandmother, and aunt had all died from the illness in the space of six weeks, ABC Illawarra reported.
In 2016, Yerbury was himself diagnosed with ALS, and in 2018 underwent a tracheostomy and laryngectomy.
His significant contributions to MND research and disability advocacy have been recognised through several awards.
In 2020, he received an Order of Australia (Member of the Order; AM), and in 2022, was awarded the Keys to the City of Wollongong and the prestigious University of New South Wales Eureka Prize for Scientific Research.
Davidson said the university plans to honour Yerbury through the establishment of the Justin Yerbury Chair in Neurodegenerative Diseases.
“This initiative, conceived by Justin and his wife, Rachel, is not just a monument to Justin’s exceptional contributions but also a tangible extension of his personal vision,” she said.
Details of a memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days.
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