History of the centre
History of occupational medicine and occupational hygiene in Manchester
It is fitting that the University of Manchester, with its civic tradition and location in the industrial heartland of Britain, should host an academic unit of occupational health.
Ronald Lane, the first Professor of Occupational Medicine at the University of Manchester, was appointed in 1945 and it was the 60th anniversary (Diamond Jubilee) of this key event in 2005. Professor Lane's tenure was the longest of the Professors to date, lasting from 1945 to 1964. During his tenure research was undertaken in many diverse areas, ranging from lead poisoning to byssinosis (the dust-related disease in cotton workers). Richard Schilling (biochemist and occupational physician) joined as a Reader and deputy to Ronald Lane in 1947, where he began a study of byssinosis. Upon Ronald Lane's retirement, he was succeeded by TS Scott.
The history of occupational medicine and hygiene in Manchester and elsewhere owes a great deal to several people who are sadly no longer with us. We keep their memory alive through our work. Please see:
Staff list
Staff at the Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health are here to assist. For information on who to contact, see Contact us, or view our Staff list.