In a decisive way it has made a direct study of immunologically active tissue feasible, which in turn has created conditions for a further penetration of the problem of the nature of immunity and of such disturbances of immunization processes as might result in serious disease. However, immunology is not the only field in which Burnet's and Medawar's work has left its imprints. They have also provided tumour research and genetics with invaluable tools by which new important discoveries were made possible. Sir Macfarlane Burnet. Doctor Peter Brian Medawar.
Immunity is our perhaps most important defense against a hostile surrounding world.
By penetrating analysis of existing data and brilliant deduction, and by painstaking experimental research you have unveiled a fundamental law governing the development and maintenance of this vital mechanism. On behalf of the Caroline Institute, I extend to you our warm congratulations, and ask you to receive the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine from the hands of His Majesty the King. From Nobel Lectures , Physiology or Medicine 1942-1962.