John Aitken (biologist)
Robert John Aitken (born 4 September 1947) is a British reproductive biologist, widely known for identifying oxidative stress as a significant contribution to infertility and its actions on human sperm function. He also made substantial contributions to clinical practice translation in male reproductive health, notably the development of new contraceptive vaccine.
John Aitken | |
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| Born | 4 September 1947 Bath, England |
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| Known for | Research in human reproductive medicine Impact of oxidative stress and male infertility |
| Awards | 2012 NSW Scientist of the Year, 2016 Carl G. Hartman Award, 2021 Clarke Medal |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Researcher, andrologist/reproductive biologist |
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| Doctoral advisor | Roger Short |
He was born in Bath, England but moved to Australia in 1997, where he took Chair of Biological Sciences at the University of Newcastle, then nominated to Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Health and Medicine and Laureate Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Newcastle since 2013. He is currently Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, the Australian Academy of Science and the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, a former president of the International Society of Andrology. Aitken also founded and directed the Priority Research Centre in Reproduction at the University of Newcastle, where he and his colleagues work on a broad spectrum of reproductive issues from conception to parturition.
Aitken has received many honours for his contributions to science throughout his career, including the Carl G. Hartman Award and the 2012 NSW Scientist. Aitken is the most cited author of several biology journals, particularly in the field of Andrology: Reproduction, Molecular Human Reproduction, International Journal of Andrology, Journal of Andrology.