Professor ‘enriched’ Parkinson’s community

Professor Ken Bowler, who was credited with revolutionising the relationship between researchers and people living with Parkinson’s disease, has died at 76.

Originally from Luton, Prof Bowler gained a first-class honours degree from Imperial College London where he specialised in theoretical physics. He received his doctorate in theoretical and mathematical physics from Sussex University.

He was an eminent particle physicist and retired as Professor of Physics from Edinburgh University in 2005.

Shortly after retiring he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and became heavily involved in the Edinburgh branch of Parkinson’s UK.

Using his professional experience he took an interest in Parkinson’s research. As a volunteer with the charity he brought enthusiasm for research and experience of Parkinson’s to the task of assessing applications for research funding.

He then played a vital role in establishing the charity’s national research support network, which inspires people affected by Parkinson’s to get involved in research.

Claire Bale, head of research at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Ken was a very special person. Hugely knowledgeable, generous and kind.

“He was a collaborator, a listener and do-er. He never wanted to be centre stage. Everyone who worked with Ken – staff, scientists and volunteers – valued him as a colleague and a friend.

“He has left an incredible legacy to the Parkinson’s community that will continue to bring people together in the quest for a cure.”

In 2010 Prof Bowler and Patrick Mark, chairman of Edinburgh branch of Parkinson’s UK, met researcher Dr Tilo Kunath and discussed creating a world-class annual lecture in Edinburgh, and a regular Edinburgh Research Interest Group.

There are now eight Parkinson’s UK Research Interest Groups across the UK based on Prof Bowler’s Edinburgh model, with plans for more.

His roles with the Edinburgh branch of the charity included the development and maintenance of a comprehensive website and the co-ordination of internationally acclaimed public research lectures.

A natural collaborator and organiser, Prof Bowler attracted the most pre-eminent scientists from around the world to go to Edinburgh to deliver annual Parkinson’s lectures.

The eighth lecture took place two weeks before he died, and it was fitting that his work for the branch was honoured that evening with the announcement of a new bursary bearing his name being established for young researchers in Edinburgh.

Annie Macleod, Scotland director of Parkinson’s UK, said: “The Parkinson’s community in Scotland was enriched by Ken’s presence. Though his place can never be filled, we work hard to ensure his legacy thrives.

“Scotland is at the leading edge of Parkinson’s research, and when the discovery of a cure comes – and it will come – it will be thanks to the efforts of people like Ken Bowler.”

Prof Bowler is survived by two daughters. A private funeral later this month will be followed by a public celebration of his life at the Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh on October 28.

Professor Ken Bowler.