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A world-renowned infectious diseases physician and scientist, Professor Lewin played an important role in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2020, she was part of the team that first isolated SARS-CoV-2 at the Doherty Institute, which supported more than 35 laboratories to develop novel diagnostics and therapeutics for COVID-19 early in the pandemic. She was co-chair of Australia’s National COVID Health and Research Advisory Committee, providing key advice on COVID-19 to Australia’s Chief Medical Officer.  

Professor Lewin is one of the world's leading experts in the field of HIV. She has pioneered novel approaches to identify and eliminate HIV latency, a persistent challenge faced by individuals living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. She spearheads collaborative global efforts in the scientific community aimed at discovering a cure for HIV. Professor Lewin is currently the elected President of the International AIDS Society. 

During a special ceremony held in Melbourne, Professor Lewin stood alongside Professors Özlem Türeci and Uğur Şahin, co-founders of BioNTech, renowned for their pioneering contributions to vaccinology, notably the development of mRNA vaccines. 

Presiding over the ceremony, La Trobe Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Dewar AO spoke highly of the distinguished scientists and their contributions to global health research, saying that their amazing contribution to global medical research is immeasurable. 

“During decades of research, they have achieved a series of original scientific and technological breakthroughs based on their basic research efforts, their persistent development work and their determined and fast reaction to the emergence of SARS-CoV-2. The isolation of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the development of the world’s first approved vaccine against COVID-19 was a medical breakthrough and made a difference for individuals and humankind. Their work has undoubtedly saved millions of lives,” said Professor Dewar. 

“These remarkable researchers, who have also made significant strides in mRNA development, cancer research and in strategies to achieve an HIV cure, also serve as role models for students and researchers here in Australia, including at La Trobe University, who are forging their way forward in their chosen fields.” 

Upon receiving the honorary degree, Professor Lewin said that the prestigious recognition is also a reminder of the pivotal role that science and collaboration play in addressing some of the world's most pressing health challenges. 

“I am truly honoured to receive an honorary degree from La Trobe University. Major advances that the world has made in global pandemics such as COVID-19 and HIV have only been possible through science and international collaboration. I am thrilled to be recognised for my contributions to both pandemics, with two of my scientific heroes!”said Professor Lewin.