Allan and Maria Myers Lecture at Newman College 2026

Held annually at Newman College, the Allan and Maria Myers Lecture brings together the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Newman College at the University of Melbourne, and some of the world's leading voices in science for an evening of public dialogue on the frontiers of brain and mind research.

The lecture honours the extraordinary generosity of Allan and Maria Myers, whose support has long strengthened both institutions. Allan Myers, an alumnus of Newman College and former Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, has maintained a lasting connection to the College since his own student days, and has served on the Florey's Board of Directors for many years. Together, Allan and Maria's philanthropy has helped build the partnership between Newman College and the Florey that this lecture celebrates.

Each year, the lecture invites a distinguished international scientist to share their research with the Newman community, The Florey's supporters, and the broader public - continuing a tradition that reflects both institutions' shared commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering intellectual exchange.

You are warmly invited to attend the 2026 Newman College Allan and Maria Myers Lecture presented by internationally renowned stem cell and regeneration biologist Professor Robin Franklin FRS.

Brains, Stem Cells and Growing Old – Reversing the Ravages of Time

Professor Robin Franklin FRS
Principal Investigator, Altos Labs Cambridge Institute of Science
Honorary Professor, School of Biological Sciences, University of Cambridge.

Date: Wednesday 16 September

Time: 5:00 – 6:00 pm

Location: Newman College, 887 Swanston St, Parkville VIC 3052

For many years, scientists believed that the brain lacked the capacity to regenerate because it did not contain the stem cells required to produce new cells. Professor Franklin's pioneering research has challenged this view, demonstrating that the adult brain contains its own reservoir of stem cells and that understanding how to control their behaviour may hold the key to repairing damaged brain tissue and treating neurological disease.

In this fascinating lecture, Professor Franklin will explore the biology of brain regeneration, the impact of ageing on stem cell function, and why recent advances in the field present exciting new possibilities for future therapies.

Professor Franklin is a Founding Principal Investigator at Altos Labs Cambridge Institute of Science and Honorary Professor at the University of Cambridge. His internationally recognised research on remyelination and stem cell biology has led to clinical trials and earned him numerous honours, including Fellowship of the Royal Society and the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Barancik International Prize for Research Innovation, and the King Faisal Prize for Medicine.

Importantly, you do not need a background in science or medicine to enjoy this lecture. Professor Franklin is an engaging and accessible speaker who brings complex scientific concepts to life, making this a fascinating event for anyone interested in the brain, ageing, health, and the future of medicine.

We hope you can join us for what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking evening.

Seats are limited. Please RSVP to confirm your place.