19 July 2004
New president and vice-chairman for biochemical society
The Biochemical Society announced today (Sunday 18 July) that Sir Philip Cohen FRS FRSE from the
University of Dundee will become its next president in January 2006. Sir Philip, Royal Society Research
Professor, is director of the MRC Protein Phosphorylation Unit and director of research at the
University’s School of Life Sciences.
Commenting on the appointment of the new president, Professor Peter Downes, chairman of the society said
another University of Dundee scientist said, "Sir Philip is arguably the UK's leading biochemist and an
iconic figure in UK science. His contribution to our understanding of the roles of protein
phosphorylation in cell signalling is legendary. It is a privilege to have him as our president."
Sir Philip obtained his PhD in biochemistry at University College London and joined the University of
Dundee in 1971. Amongst his many achievements, Sir Philip has been essential in the development of
world-class biochemistry at the University of Dundee.
The society also announced today that Professor Martin Humphries is to take up the appointment of
vice-chairman in January 2005. Professor Humphries is professor of biochemistry and Wellcome Trust
principal research fellow in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Manchester. His
research focuses on a molecular dissection of cell-matrix interactions and in particular,
structure-function studies on adhesion molecules and integrin receptors.
"Martin Humphries is one of those rare people who combine scientific excellence with academic
leadership. These are the qualities the Biochemical Society needs as we tackle ambitious programmes
reflecting the changing attitudes towards scientific publishing and scientists’ responsibilities in the
public domain," said Professor Downes.
For further information contact
Elaine Snell - Tel +44 (0)20 7738 0424; mobile +44 (0)7973 953 794, elaine.snell@which.net
Or from 18 - 22 July, BioScience2004 Press Office 0141 576 3146
Notes to Editors
BioScience2004 is hosted by the Biochemical Society - www.biochemistry.org
By Jenny Marra, Head of Press 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, j.m.marra@dundee.ac.uk | 
