Sir Peter Lachmann FMedSci FRS

Peter Lachmann was an immunologist who investigated the mechanisms by which the immune system protects against pathogens. The same mechanisms cause inflammation and can give rise to disease. Peter was an expert on complement, a system that contributes largely to these mechanisms.

His research interests included the immunochemistry, biology and genetics of complement. His work in downregulating its central pathway promises to produce a treatment for the eye condition, age-related macular degeneration. He also studied immunopathology — the ways in which the immune system causes disease, with a special interest in systemic lupus erythematosus and allergy to insect stings.

Peter was founding President of the Academy of Medical Sciences and was active in policy and ethical aspects of medical science in a number of key areas such as vaccination policy, stem cell research and genetically modified crops. Peter received several international awards and was knighted in 2002.

Sir Peter Lachmann FMedSci FRS died on 26 December 2020.

Professional position

  • Emeritus Sheila Joan Smith Professor of Immunology, Centre For Veterinary Science, University of Cambridge

Subject groups

  • Microbiology, immunology and developmental biology

    Cellular and humoral immunology

Sir Peter Lachmann FMedSci FRS
Elected 1982