Message I was shocked and saddened to hear of Chris's death. I learnt so much from Chris when we worked on Beecham-sponsored PhD projects on solid-state NMR analysis of drugs. He was a visionary thinker and a great person who will be much missed.

Message He was an impressive and charming host at Old Johnian events and it was immediately clear why he was so much respected and popular as an outstanding Master of the College.

Message I feel both honored and sad to recall the wonderful time with Master Dobson while doing my PhD at St John’s. He welcomed me and my husband Terry Xu with great hospitality during an afternoon tea party. Knowing that we are from mainland China, Master Dobson and Mary shared their stories from their trip to China. They were extremely polite, kind, and humorous. We also frequented the Master’s concerts that were of such great quality and that relieved us from our papers and writing. And there’s many more: his short but witty and inspiring talks at dinners, big smiles when saying hi ...... He will be remembered deep down in all Johnians!

Message Chris was a scientific mentor to my wife and helped her through a very difficult time during her PhD. I can honestly say that were it not for Chris' belief in her she may well have left science, and Cambridge, and our lives might have turned out very differently. She is now a successful academic, and we will forever be indebted to Chris for that. I knew Chris as a Johnian, and fellow scientist (PhD at the time).

He was a inspirational scientific mentor, a role-model of tremendous humanity and courage, and a fantastic example of how to lead with respect, integrity and humility.

Our condolences to his family but I hope they can take solace in the knowledge of the impact this wonderful man had on the lives of so many.

Message Chris Dobson was a brilliant scientist, a charismatic and energetic Master and a friend. Together with Mary Dobson he transformed what in my day had been a rather gloomy and remote Master's Lodge into a welcoming home that exuded warmth and hospitality.
They both loved the College and it showed. Some years ago I had the pleasure of showing Chris round Tokyo, when he was there for some academic discussions that conveniently coincided with a visit to Tokyo by the College choir which he was very supportive of. He recounted how one day he was walking through Chapel Court as the choristers were on their way to rehearse for evensong. One small boy approached Chris and announced that he would be singing a solo for the first time, that evening, adding "You will come, Sir, won't you." Chris in fact had other things planned but a quick readjustment of his schedule enabled him to attend Chapel and make one small, nervous boy very, very proud and happy. And that was the essence of Chris - brilliant yet modest and so very kind hearted. He did wonders for the College ; he will be fondly remembered and greatly missed .

Message I knew Sir Christopher through his support of LMBC and as a governor of the school where I work. He was immensely supportive, kind and really cared about the experience of the students. His ready smile was never far away and he always seemed to enjoy life and wanted others to do so. A great man indeed.

Message A fantastic Master. Chris and Mary always made me feel so welcome. They were an unforgettable part of college life.

Message I was deeply saddened to hear that Chris passed away. He was a wonderful person, always there to talk to and a great scientist. I will miss him greatly.

Message As one of the graduates in College at the time of the arrival of Sir Christopher Dobson as new Master, I will remember with gratitude his kind encouragement and support to the student community at St. John's . May he rest in Peace.

Message It is with a very heavy heart and a deep sense of gratitude that I write this. While I am aware of the huge contribution which the Master has made to academia and to human well-being, I remember him most for his brilliant management of the College. He was a gracious host and entertaining speaker but in particular he made all of us members of the College family feel valued and special. He was a man of not only great erudition but also great humanity - a rare combination. I will miss him greatly.