Cancer Research UK researchers honoured by the Queen

Two Cancer Research UK-funded experts have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for their services to science.

Professor Richard Treisman, director of research at the Francis Crick Institute, was awarded a knighthood, while the charity’s chief clinician, Professor Peter Johnson, received a CBE.

Prof Treisman – who is also a Fellow of both the Royal Society and the Academy of Medical Sciences – is involved in fundamental laboratory research, exploring how changes in the activity of the cell’s internal structures – known as the cytoskeleton – affect gene activity.

Prof Johnson has been Cancer Research UK’s chief clinician since 2008, and also leads the Southampton Cancer Research UK Centre. He is also Professor of Medical Oncology within Medicine at the University of Southampton.

Much of his distinguished career has centred on the treatment of lymphoma, an area in which he has led several national and international trials as chief investigator.

In tribute to Prof Treisman, Sir Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “This is wonderful news and fantastic recognition for Richard’s work.

“He has spent his career working to better understand the complexity of cancer, and how our cells regulate DNA and coordinate gene activity. In 2000 he became director of the Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, and under his leadership the Institute became a powerhouse of ground breaking research that grew in reputation across the world.

“Richard has also been instrumental in identifying and mentoring outstanding young scientists who have gone on to become world leaders in their fields. This is thoroughly deserved and I’m delighted for Richard. 

“The charity is very lucky to have been able to support so much of his work, since the early days of his PhD when we were the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, and with his ongoing role as a research director at the Francis Crick Institute, we look forward to many more years of working together. It’s only through work such as Richard’s that we’re able to develop discovering new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.”

In praising Prof Johnson’s achievements, Sir Harpal added: “This is well deserved recognition for Peter. As well as being a dedicated oncologist and expert on lymphoma, his involvement in immunotherapy has helped to shape the clinical landscape for patients across the UK.

“His ability to balance his research and commitments to his patients in Southampton with his work as Cancer Research UK’s chief clinician in London and around the world, has also helped us ensure patients are at the heart of efforts to cure cancer faster.

“We’re extremely happy for Peter and look forward to many more years of working together.”