WINNIPEG — The former scientific director of Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory who recently had experimental brain surgery to battle alcoholism has died.
The University of Manitoba confirmed the death of Dr. Francis Plummer, 67, a renowned microbiologist and infectious-disease expert.
Plummer’s research shaped public health policy around the world, in particular his research into HIV.
He was at the helm of the Winnipeg lab during the spread of SARS and H1N1, as well as during the development of the Ebola vaccine.
He was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2006, and a member of the Order of Manitoba three years later.
Plummer recently shared his own battle with alcoholism and how he was part of a clinical trial using deep brain stimulation.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 4, 2020
The Canadian Press
The Canadian Press
