Associate Professor Mark Thomas, Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, was made a Companion of the NZ Order of Merit in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Mark is an Infectious Diseases Physician, whose research and educational efforts have made him a leading trusted source of information on antibiotic prescribing and as a clinician advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Mark began supporting people living with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s, advocating for better treatments and reducing stigma. He helped establish and provide clinical support for the New Zealand Aids Foundation (now the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa).
He gave numerous educational sessions about HIV/AIDS, including writing the book ‘HIV Explained’, which continues to be used for teaching within hospitals and universities.
Over his career, he has made significant contributions to multiple national advisory bodies on infectious diseases including HIV and antibiotic matters and has assisted various community organisations supporting people living with HIV/AIDS.
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