Professor McDonald is an eminent physician-scientist working in the field of Respiratory Medicine. She has distinguished herself as a physician, investigator and teacher and latterly also as public spokesperson and department and institute head. She is recognised nationally and internationally for translating clinical research from bench to bedside in home and hospital settings, especially in the field of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. She exemplifies the many objective and empathic skills needed to be a rigorous scientist, administrator and care-giver. She is therefore deserving of the recognition this membership will bring.