Milton Wainwright
Professor of Microbiology
An accomplished microbiologist with over 50 years of experience, Professor Wainwright has dedicated his career to exploring panspermia and the possibility of life originating beyond Earth. His work covers the history of antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin, the development of germ theory, and the provocative idea that bacteria may contribute to cancer. A member of the Royal Astronomical Society, he has authored numerous scientific papers, articles, and books, offering a distinctive perspective at the intersection of microbiology and astrobiology.
Research Interests
With a career spanning over five decades, this distinguished microbiologist has pursued a wide range of groundbreaking research interests that challenge conventional scientific thought.
A central focus of his work is the theory of panspermia—the idea that life on Earth originated from microorganisms or biological material from space. In collaboration with Professor Chandra Wickramasinghe, he has helped shape one of the world’s leading frameworks for understanding the cosmic origins of life, pushing the boundaries of astrobiology.
Another major area of his research is the controversial yet compelling hypothesis that all cancers may be caused by undetected, persistent bacteria within the body—an idea that could revolutionize our understanding of cancer and its treatment. He has also delved into the history of antibiotics, bringing to light new and often overlooked details about the contributions of Alexander Fleming in the discovery of penicillin and Albert Schatz in the development of streptomycin.
His work on germ theory has uncovered unrecognized figures and milestones that reshaped medical science's view of microbes and their role in health and disease. Additionally, he has proposed fresh perspectives on the history and mechanisms of evolution, questioning long-held assumptions and opening new avenues for scientific inquiry.
Through his extensive research, publications, and collaborations, he continues to challenge orthodoxies and bring renewed attention to the overlooked dimensions of microbiology and the origins of life.