Barbara Ferrier

Barbara Ferrier, PhD, a strong advocate for the principle that "personal qualities" are as important in future physicians as good marks, made outstanding contributions to the advancement of medical education at McMaster through her commitment to teaching, enthusiasm for research and expertise in curriculum development.

She earned a PhD in chemistry in Edinburgh, joining McMaster’s Department of Biochemistry in 1972 where she remained a dedicated faculty member long after her appointment as a professor emeritus in 1998. During her career, her scholarly interests shifted from biochemistry to innovations in education. She was the first director of the "preliminary course" – a special "McMaster style" summer course which prepared students entering the MD program who had little, or no, background in biological or behavioural sciences.

An insightful tutor, Ferrier is remembered for her ability to inspire excellence in her students. She contributed to the medical school’s revamped MD COMPASS curriculum which puts greater emphasis on the fundamental mechanisms which impact health. A strong advocate of problem-based learning (PBL), as director of the university’s Arts and Science program, she influenced its inclusion in the program. Her influence reached beyond McMaster to the community and provincial committees.