Memorial service to honor late scientist’s life, work

The University of Florida College of Dentistry will honor Dr. Michael G. Humphreys-Beher, faculty member and researcher, with a series of memorial events on Feb. 11.

Humphreys-Beher, an internationally known expert in the field of salivary gland physiology and Sjogren’s Syndrome, died on Sept. 10 of complications of cystic fibrosis. He was 46.

The memorial services will include personal remembrances of family, friends and colleagues from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a symposium of Humphreys-Beher’s research from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Both events will take place in Room D3-3 of the Dental Sciences Building in the UF Health Science Center.

Humphreys-Beher, a member of the department of oral biology for 13 years, collaborated with researchers from different disciplines and institutions. Arnold Bleiweis, Ph.D., professor and former chair of oral biology, will moderate the remembrance service. The participants will reveal the personal side of Humphreys-Beher with music and photographs. All guests are welcome to share their thoughts and memories of Humphreys-Beher.

The symposium, titled “Salivary Gland Homeostasis: Spit Happens,” will feature colleagues, contributors and former doctoral students who were mentored by Humphreys-Beher. The main presenter will be David Quissell, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. Other speakers will highlight Humphreys-Beher’s contributions to the understanding of the salivary gland function and the impact of his research on scientists worldwide.

Both events are open to the public. Seating is limited and punctuality is appreciated. For more information, contact Bleiweis at (352) 846-0784.