Christopher John Marshall

Abstract Christopher Marshall was a cell biologist by training, who was recognized for his contribution to cancer biology. He graduated from the natural sciences tripos in Cambridge and obtained his DPhil from Oxford. Following postdoctoral studies in London and Boston, he returned to the UK to take a position at the Institute of Cancer Research, where he remained for the rest of his life. Chris made major discoveries in the identification and understanding of the oncogenic mechanisms of RAS and MAPKs, delineating signalling pathways that are activated through various mechanisms in most cancers. His work contributed to the development of small molecule inhibitors of several of the proteins involved that are now in routine clinical use, perfectly encapsulating the concept of bench to bedside research. Chris nurtured and developed the career of scores of trainees, including those that worked with him and many who were enthused by simply meeting him or following his work. By inspiring generations of cancer biologists, Chris passed on the passion and rigour that he brought to his studies, and his legacy lives on in their work.