The links between zoonosis — infectious diseases of animals that can naturally be transmitted to humans — and pandemics in our changing world is the topic of a lecture on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

Ab Osterhaus, a world-renowned virology professor from the Netherlands, will give the Chanchlani Global Health Research lecture from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Health Sciences Centre Room 1A1. The free lecture is open to the public.

Osterhaus has a long track record as a scientific researcher, known for discovery of more than 50 new viruses of humans and animals, along with development of new prevention and treatment strategies. These have helped authorities such as the World Health Organization effectively combat disease outbreaks like SARS and the avian influenza.

As a professor in Rotterdam and Utrecht in the Netherlands, as well as in Hanover, Germany, his research program has involved an integrated “viroscience” concept, which brings together world-leading scientists from all scientific disciplines that deal with viruses to study human and animal viral infections.

Osterhaus will receive the Chanchlani Global Health Research Award following the lecture. The award was created by the Chanchlani family and McMaster in 2012 to recognize a leading scholar in the area of global health.

During his stay at McMaster, he will consult with researchers of the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research and related departments.

Follow this link to watch a livestream of Osterhaus’ Wednesday talk.