Continuation of cancer research: Denis Burkitt's transfer from the Ugandan Government Colonial Service to the Medical Research Council

Papers relating to Burkitt in 1963 and the transfer from Ugandan Government to being supported by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and proposals for epidemiological studies of the geographical pattern of cancer in tropical Africa 1963-1964 under the MRC.

Proposal, dated 21 Jan 1963, by I. W. J. McAdam, Head of Department of Surgery, Makerere University College, regarding the future work of Burkitt. The proposal is to Sir Harold Himsworth KCB of the Medical Research Council in London. Burkitt has been employed by the Government as a Senior Surgical Specialist for the last 5 years and who has become increasingly involved in investigating the various aspects of African children's lymphoma syndrome. The recommendation is for Burkitt to relinquish his post and devote his time to his research studies in lymphoma syndrome and other cancers. Burkitt was studying the the relation between tumour distribution and climatic factors and attempting to define the areas of greatest incidence change, referred to by Burkitt s 'geographical biopsies'. McAdam wanted Burkitt to be able to resign from his present post but retain reasonable job security. He would be working in close cooperation with Professor Hutt and his department (Pathology) and Professor A. Haddow and his Institute in Entebbe. The proposal outlines over a page and a half a scheme for how the research would be carried out. He is looking for support for Burkitt and facilities in the Department of Pathology. Accomodation for Burkitt would be provided in the Department of Surgery and it is suggested that he be appointed to that department of the University. Sets out a cost estimate for salary, travel, secretarial support, etc. Burkitt due leave from Africa in July for 4 months.

Another typed document copy of details for extending cancer research. Undated.

Letter to Burkitt dated 19 Jul 1963 from H. E. O. Hughes, Department of Technical Co-operation, about discussing arrangements, with Lush and Lewthwaite at the MRC to enable him to continue cancer research (Uganda government did not like the proposals).

Letter to Burkitt from the MRC (Brandon Lush) in 3 Sep 1963 about the showing of his film on African lymphoma, (or 'Burkitt's tumour') at the Imperial Cancer Research Laboratories at Lincolns Inn. Sir Harold may also attend. Also mentions discussing Burkitt's future.

Letter to Burkitt dated 16 Oct 1963 from Hughes regarding when to terminate his appointment with the Uganda government (31 Mar) and commence his appointment with the MRC and DTC (at the beginning of the financial year -1 April 1964).

Copy of Burkitt's resignation letter to the CMO, Ministry of Health, Entebbe, Uganda, dated 4 November 1963 (in order to transfer to the MRC). The required 6 months notice is given back dated to 1 October 1963 with termination effective on 31 March 1964.

Report of work April 1963-March 1964 by Burkitt, for Dr R Lewthwaite, Department of Technical Cooperation, covering his studies of African Lymphoma Syndrome.

TCRF lymphoma programme from February 1963, recording what has been done and conclusions and suggestions for further work.

Document about financial arrangments for Burkitt and his family.

Drafts probably for the formal proposal to the MRC.

1963-1964

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