Director's welcome
Professor James Ussher
Welcome to the Webster Centre for Infectious Diseases at the University of Otago.
Although based in Dunedin, we are a virtual centre dedicated to supporting basic research in infectious diseases throughout New Zealand.
Our primary mission is to provide molecular solutions to problems in infectious diseases through the application of modern methods of molecular and translational research. In turn, we hope that this progress will lead to the development of new vaccines, diagnostics and antimicrobials.
The type of research support we have offered is through student support, a sponsored seminar programme, and every two years we convene a New Zealand-wide symposium on infectious diseases research. Our student support consists of summer fellowships and student travel scholarships.
- Webster Centre symposia and seminars
- Webster Centre undergraduate scholarships
- Webster Centre postgraduate travel awards
The Webster Centre is an alliance member of One Health Aotearoa.
Please explore our site to discover who we are and what our members are up to. Contact us if you have any questions or if you would like to join us. Welcome.
Professor James Ussher
Director, Webster Centre for Infectious Diseases
Email james.ussher@otago.ac.nz
Professor Ussher's research interests
Immunity to bacterial infection, antimicrobial resistance
World authority on avian influenza inspires our name
We take our name from Robert G Webster, a New Zealander, and world authority on avian influenza.
Distinguished scientists lead our research teams
Our Centre combines the strength of our academic research (from across four universities) with Crown Research Institutes. This provides us with a comprehensive framework for basic, clinical and epidemiological studies. Our Steering Committee consists of distinguished researchers who guide our research path.