Roy Cameron (pathologist) facts for kids

Sir Gordon Roy Cameron (born June 30, 1899 – died October 7, 1966) was an important Australian scientist. He was a pathologist, which means he studied diseases and how they affect the body. He helped us understand more about how our bodies work and how to fight illnesses.

Early Life and School

Gordon Roy Cameron was born in 1899 in a town called Echuca, in Victoria, Australia. His parents were George and Emily Cameron.

He went to different schools in small villages like Mitiamo, Lancefield, and Dunkeld. From 1911 to 1917, he went to school in Kyneton. During some of these years, he also had to do military service.

University Studies

Roy was very smart and won a scholarship to Queen's College at the University of Melbourne. He studied medicine there from 1916 to 1922. He earned his medical degree with good grades.

A lecture by a professor named Harry Brookes Allen inspired Roy to focus on a special field called pathology. This is the study of diseases. In 1924, he became a lecturer in pathology at the University of Melbourne.

A Career in Science

In 1925, another scientist, Charles Kellaway, invited Roy to work at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. Roy worked there as a deputy director, helping to lead the research.

In 1927, he moved to London, England, to work at University College Hospital (UCH). He planned to return to Australia later, but he ended up staying in London. He lived with a family who became very close to him. Roy never married.

Important Research

Roy continued his work at University College Hospital. In 1929, he became a Graham Scholar in Pathology, which is a special research position. The next year, he became a Beit Fellow for Medical Research.

He spent a year working at Queen Mary's Hospital, but he preferred his work at UCH. So, in 1934, he returned to UCH as a Reader in Pathology. This meant he was a senior teacher and researcher.

When his boss, Arthur Boycott, retired in 1937, Roy took over his role.

World War II Work

During World War II, Roy worked with another scientist, Joseph Barcroft. They studied the effects of poison gas at a place called Porton Down. This was important work to understand how to protect people from these dangerous chemicals.

After the war, Roy returned to UCH and became the head of the Graham department. He led important research in pathology.

Later Life and Honors

Roy Cameron retired in 1964. He passed away from heart disease on October 7, 1966.

He was recognized for his amazing contributions to science. In 1957, he was knighted, which means he received the title "Sir." In 1962, he visited Australia for the only time after moving to London. He received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Melbourne.