Message I am deeply saddened by the death of Sir Christopher Dobson. He was a kind and generous man. My condolences to the family and to the members of the college.

Message Although not officially a member of the 'Dobson scientific diaspora', in that I was never a member of his research group, Chris certainly played an important part in my scientific career. Chris one of my lecturers as an undergraduate Oxford chemist (ca. 1982-3), helping to frame my appreciation for spectroscopy and molecular biophysics. Later I was fortunate to be taught hands-on experimental NMR by Chris's then post-doc Christina Redfield as part of my Part II and DPhil projects in Chris's Oxford department (Inorganic Chemistry). When, for various reasons unconnected to Chris and Christina, my enthusiasm for sticking with the degree became ragged to a point where I though of quitting Chris, who really had no day-to-day personal connection with me, advised me that I should write up instead. It was a fantastic piece of advice and one that I will forever be grateful for. It set me on a path to my own comparatively minor successes in NMR spectroscopy. As my career advanced I was fortunate to have quite a few further encounters with Chris, a couple of times by chance in airport departure lounges, others at conferences, and even as host of his lecture to British Biophysical Centenary Symposium at UCL in 2000. He was always unfailingly enthusiastic, complimentary, optimistic and encouraging. If I recall correctly, I smuggled my teenage son into the lecture given by Chris at the ICMRBS in Cairns, Australia. Given that it was my son, now in the city, who alerted me to this awful news, I am curious whether that exposure was part of his inspiration to read biochemistry for his degree. It is with great sadness that I contemplate that such opportunities to be wowed by Chris will not arise again. I send my deepest condolences to the Chris's family and his scientific diaspora.

Message Chris was a truly inspirational scientist. He always had the time to provide me with mentorship, and his optimism always left me feeling positive after having meetings with him. It was a great privilege to have worked with him, and his support will be missed greatly.

Message It was a real pleasure to have been in is company, a true gentleman, we will truly miss his warmth and friendship .

Message Sir Chris Dobson was a truly kind, interesting and intelligent man. He always made the effort to talk to students and he always seemed genuinely interested in what they had to say. Whenever he spoke it was always thoughtful and usually witty. He will be dearly missed

Message So sad to mark the passing of a very dear friend and a great mind. Chris I have so many memories of your wonderful sense of humour and the tales you would tell, this will always bring a smile to my face. It’s been a great honour and privilege to know you. The world will be a poorer place without you. xxxx.

Message I worked for St John’s from 2016-18 and was struck by Sir Chris’ approachability, kindness and generosity with his time, given how very busy he was. My thoughts are with his family, the College community and all who were close to him, at this difficult time.

Message Remaining extremely sad from Chris' passing, I can only describe his exquisite character with the following incident. I was working in July at the library, as usual, picking a spot which overlooked the Master's lodge. One of the joys was to see Chris, Mary and their sons walk with their dog, Jimbo, around the garden. This July afternoon, though, Chris was walking Jimbo alone. At one point, he stopped, kneeled down and gave Jimbo the most affectionate hug and kiss.
This was Professor Sir Christopher Dobson; a man of immense academic calibre and true love for everyone at the College. He will be deeply missed. My condolences and thoughts to Dr Dobson and their two sons, Richard and William.

Message Chris was a true gentleman of science, one of that rare breed who combined kindness, elegance, wit and penetrating intelligence. Every encounter with him left one both happy, encouraged and enlightened, no matter who you were. Even as I mourn his passing, I celebrate his many contributions as a scientist and fellow human being. He will be sorely missed but also cherished for his critical role in many important aspects of protein science.

Message Thank you for being so kind, welcoming and generous.