Book of Condolence: Professor Sir Christopher Dobson

This page was created to display online messages of condolence following the death of Professor Sir Christopher Dobson, Master of St John’s College, who died age 69 on Sunday, September 8 2019.

Please note we are no longer accepting submissions to the online condolence book.

Deeply saddened by the loss of an outstanding man of science and an exemplary human being who brought so much to John's.
David Goulden
Sir Christopher was an outstanding Master and his unceasing devotion to the College and his promotion of its interests and that of 'all true learning' and its more modern incarnation as 'Free thinking' was an inspiration to all. In his combination of the role of Master with outstanding scientific achievements he amazed his contemporaries and was an example of mankind at it very best. The College and all who love St John's will mourn his passing.

To his family, please may I expressed my deepest sympathy.
Paul Kelly
I’m so sorry to hear this news. My sympathy and condolences to the family.
Peter Wiggins
As with everyone he spoke to, I felt a very clear and personal relationship with Sir Christopher—independently of the great causes, research, and initiatives advanced, this was his own magic. Even though we were all in such wildly different orbits, Sir Christopher always projected a connection, a familiarity, and a welcome to all of us, and so a wish to support and extend the incredible community of St. John's and its impact around the world. Sir Christopher's passing is a shock not just to those at Cambridge, but to all of the broader Johnian community who came to know him. Paz a su alma.

My deepest sympathies for Dr. Dobson and the family.
Gilberto Arias
I am saddened to hear of the death of Sir Christopher. Not just a great mind, but a gracious, gentle and welcoming presence in the life of the college. May he rest in peace.
Hilary Larkin
What a truly terrible loss this is, for the University, for the College, and for Chris' family. Like so many others, I was struck by Chris' extraordinary ability to balance the pressures of his cutting-edge research activities, with the pastoral demands of acting as Master, a role to which he devoted himself with equally heartfelt enthusiasm. It seemed he knew each and every student personally, taking genuine and active interest in their lives and ongoing study, a truly remarkable achievement given parallel duties and accomplishments as leader of numerous important research projects. He was proud to be the steward of the College, inviting students into his family home, proudly showing us Dirac's gown, Scott's architecture, and a fine painting whose anonymous sitter had been identified, much to his delight, by a Johnian undergraduate. Like so many, I feel fortunate to have met him. He left a mighty and positive impression despite the brevity of our interactions. His influence, both as a mentor and a scientist, will be felt for a great many years to come and far beyond the walls of the College he was so happy to call home. My thoughts and sincere condolences go to his family at this difficult time.
Charlie Draper
Very sorry to hear the sad news. Chris was a great leader first and foremost. In that capacity we we met many times and he kept me fully up to date with the progress of the scholars I helped to fund. Totally approachable, always kind and considerate, Chris will be sadly missed by all who knew him. My heartfelt condolences to his family , friends and colleagues. I hope that they will find some comfort in the many tributes being made to Chis now as a a great scientist and a great leader.
Roger Scarlett-Smith
I first met Professor Dobson as an exchange student in 2016. He was a wonderful man who believed so much in his student's capabilities and helped support us in whichever way. I was blown away by his humility and kindness. When I graduated from college years later and wished to do a year of research, my first thought was to email him. He quickly responded and provided enthusiastic support. Last year, I was able to work in his lab and was in awe of the collaborative work culture he had fostered. I will forever be grateful to him for all of his help and advice. Professor Dobson has inspired me, among so many countless students, and will be forever remembered. My thoughts with the family.
Aishwarya Nene
Shortly after my arrival to St. John’s, one night in the College Chapel, I was delighted to be tasked with announcing to the Fellowship that Chris was elected Master. He subsequently became a great mentor and role model in my career, and I remember fondly sharing many dinners and council meetings. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.
Prof. Denis Burdakov
('76-'79). A great man whom I shall most affectionately remember from Larmor Dinners - last year a deep conversation with John Worlidge.
Alan Macklin