A three-storey brick building with regular white frame windows and a carved stone entrance up a flight of stone steps.

Sir William Dunn School of Pathology

Saturday 13 September
Tour 1: 10:00-11:30; Tour 2: 13:00-14:30
Pre-booking required

What's on

Join us for a guided tour of the building and learn about 100 years of scientific discoveries, our notable alumni, and hear about our current ground-breaking research.

The Sir William Dunn School of Pathology is one of Oxford’s leading biomedical research departments, where history was made with the development of penicillin, the world’s first antibiotic. Opened in 1927, the Dunn School played a crucial role during WWII, transforming Alexander Fleming’s chance discovery into a lifesaving medical revolution. Led by Sir Howard Florey, alongside Prof. Ernst Chain and Dr. Norman Heatley, the team purified penicillin, paving the way for its global impact. 

Over the past century, our research has saved millions of lives, from pioneering flu vaccines to ground-breaking treatments for haemophilia and multiple sclerosis. Today, with over 35 cutting-edge research groups, we continue shaping the future of medicine, from cancer biology to infection and immunity. 

Join us on Saturday 13th September for an exclusive look inside both our historic and modern buildings. Our guided tours will show you our laboratories, introduce you to the room where key penicillin experiments took place, and give you the chance to hear from our current researchers working on bacteria and tackling antimicrobial resistance today.

How to book:

Book online from Monday 25 August using the links below:

Morning tour - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1548603236969?aff=oddtdtcreator

Afternoon tour - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1604777445539?aff=oddtdtcreator

Please note that this event is not suitable for children under 12 years old and buggies or similar are not permitted.

  • Disabled access: We have on-site parking for disabled visitors, although this would need to be booked in advance. We have lift access throughout the building for those who need it. We have accessible toilets. We have a portable hearing loop device. The tour will not be suitable for assistance dogs, prams or wheelchairs.
  • Toilets available

Above photo: Sir William Dunn School of Pathology. Credit: Fisher Studios Ltd.