Inaugural Professorial Lecture – Professor Michael Schultz

The title of Professor Schultz's lecture is: "Excuse me, can you show me where the bathroom is?"

About Professor Schultz's research.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic disorders which can have debilitating effects on some patients. The incidence of IBD is increasing and affects mainly young people in their productive years. The disease is thought to be the result of an over aggressive response of the gut immune system towards microorganisms.

For many years, the fundamental aspect of Michael’s research has been to understand the interaction of the host immune system with the gut microbiota, initially using animal models and cell cultures with the development of organoids (mini-guts) in the laboratory and later translating his findings to help patients.

As a clinician, he aims to improve the care of patients with IBD through better access to new medications and the development of non-medical interventions. He is also using digital technology, through applications on smart phone devices and telemedicine to assist the timely access and efficacy of clinical care.