Professor Downer is a neurobiologist who has held senior positions of academic leadership at universities in Canada, Asia and Ireland. He is editor, author or co-author of five books, over 160 scientific publications and his research has been recognised with a number of national and international awards including election as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, membership of the Royal Irish Academy and two honorary doctorates. He is currently President Emeritus, University of Limerick, Ireland, serves on a number of corporate boards, is Chair of the board of the John and Gertrude Hunt Museum, Limerick and is a member of the Executive Council of the Irish Red Cross. He is married with three children, two grandchildren and resides in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, Ireland.