Message What a sad loss for St John's and, of course, for his family. My thoughts are with them at this time

Message We are very sorry that Chris’s inspirational Mastership should have ended like this, and saddened to think that such a great scholar will not now be enjoying the splendid retirement he so richly deserved. Our thoughts are with Mary and their two sons at this very difficult time.

Message I did not know Sir Christopher, but I have heard and read nothing but good about him. Sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

Message I did not interact with Sir Christopher personally as Master, since I left St John's in 2006, but I do know that he was renowned for how deeply he cared about the students, as well as his thoughtful brilliance. My sincere condolences to Mary, Richard and William.

Message I was shocked and saddened to learn of the Master's passing. My deepest condolences to Lady Mary, Richard and William.

Sir Christopher was a wise, warm and caring man. His humble persona and witty charm, and his sincere dedication to St. John's and Cambridge, has left an indelible mark in all our hearts. He will be greatly missed.

May God rest his soul in peace.

Message I first met the late Master in 2007, when I hosted a dinner at the Oxford and Cambridge Club for the embryonic Campaign Board. Chris sat at one of the table and the late Richard Perham at the other, swapping their seats during the meal which is when we first sat next to each other. In the subsequent years, I have had the pleasure of meeting him on many occasions in both College and London, mainly through my involvement with The Johnian Society. I last saw him earlier this year at the screening in London of Red Joan and only became aware subsequently of his illness. His premature death has come as a great shock to the Johnian and wider community. He will be sorely missed - he was a decent man whose greatness was not only recognised by the Royal Society and his Knighthood, but by us Johnians too.

Message Sir Christopher was someone I honestly loved. I have been in John's for a year, met him on numerous occasions, talked directly to him several times during the course of the year, attended one of the many concerts he hosted at his house. The person I met before knowing anything about him is a model for any human being: his care, amiability, curiousness far exceeded those of anyone I've ever known. He encouraged everyone in staying true to themselves, in constantly believing that we will improve if we really want to. He gave me the kindest lesson about what it is to be a human being. The speech he gave at the Matriculation dinner will be kept in my mind until I, at long last, die too. Master, you did not know me well; but thank you. Thank you.

Message May your spirit rest in peace Professor! Chris Dobson created and left a legacy, which he shall be remembered for. It was his rare virtue to combine high-level academic rigour, leadership and very much appreciated friendly behaviour towards everyone around him. He will be greatly missed by all his students, colleagues and friends!

Message I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of Professor Dobson. He was an inspirational figure during my time at the college who invested an extraordinary amount of time & energy into the care of all the students and members of the college. My heartfelt condolences.

Message Dear Dr Dobson,
I was so sad to hear about the loss of your husband. My heart goes out to you during this incredibly difficult time.
Chris has been my supervisor and my mentor: he changed my life, inspiring and motiviating me with his curiosity, his love for science and his contagious ability to enjoy life and work.
I will always be grateful for the opportunity I had to know him.
Please accept my condolences to both you and your family.
Yours sincerely