UniQuest celebrates anniversary

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Tags: anniversaries, centenary-edition, commercialisation, UniQuest

Professor Emeritus Brian Wilson at the front of the UQ Art Museum

Former UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Wilson AO, recently returned to campus to discover an investment he made in the mid-80s has well and truly paid off.

Professor Wilson, who served as UQ’s Vice-Chancellor from 1979–1995, visited South-east Queensland to celebrate the silver anniversary of UniQuest Pty Limited, UQ’s main commercialisation company.

Professor Wilson was instrumental in the development of UniQuest, as it was his vision during the 1980s that helped the company become one of Australia’s largest and most successful university commercialisation groups. Sales of products based in UQ technology and licensed by UniQuest are now running at $5.24 billion per year.

“The overall results, after these 25 years of collaboration are remarkable, reflecting the application of professional and academic staff and the dedication of board members and University administrators,” Professor Wilson said.

At the time of his retirement in 1995, then Chancellor, Sir Llew Edwards, said Professor Wilson provided outstanding leadership which was central to the development of the University.

“During the Wilson years, the University has strengthened its position as Queensland’s premier institution and also earned its place among the national leaders,” Sir Llew said.

After retiring, Professor Wilson has been living in the South of France with his wife, distinguished immunologist and former UQ staff member Dr Joan Opdebeeck, and twin sons Cormac and Fergus who were just 15-months-old when he retired.

His eldest son, Conor, has since commenced tertiary studies at Cambridge University. Since retirement, Professor Wilson proudly claims that he has enjoyed being a father.

As UQ celebrates its Centenary year, Professor Wilson joins the many dedicated people who have contributed to not only the success of UQ, but to local, national and global communities.

Professor Wilson’s special 100-year birthday message to UQ alumni, staff and students can be viewed at the Centenary webpage.

By Shannon Price

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