Noreen Murray

Born in 1935 in Lancashire, Noreen’s research into DNA technology marked her as a pioneer in molecular genetics. She is best known for helping to develop a vaccine against hepatitis B, the first genetically engineered vaccine approved for human use.

 

Noreen joined the Medical Research Council (MRC) Molecular Genetics Unit at the University of Edinburgh in 1968, after gaining her doctorate from the University of Birmingham. As well as working to develop a hepatitis vaccine, she carried out research into recombinant DNA, helping to place Edinburgh at the forefront of biotechnology.

 

After the MRC unit closed in 1974, Noreen became a lecturer in the Department of Molecular Biology. She was later promoted to senior lecturer, then reader. She is remembered for her mentorship and uplifting impact on colleagues at the University.