This is the first biography of one of Australia's most influential scientists. Sir Macfarlane Burnet, a famously reticent man, appointed Christopher Sexton as his biographer shortly before his death, and many interviews were conducted. These interviews, in combination with Burnet's diaries, letters, and other private papers, are the basis of this biography. The result is a frank, insightful portrait of a fascinating Nobel Laureate. This is a general -- not an academic or scientific -- biography, but Burnet's scientific achievements, as well as his long Directorship of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute in Melbourne, have been captured in a style that reflects Burnet's lifelong dedication to the fundamentals of his field. Anyone interested in the world of scientific accomplishment, including general readers as well as scientists, will enjoy this account of the noted microbiologist and theoretical immunologist.