Sir Martin John Evans is a preeminent scientist whose pioneering work in stem cell biology has revolutionized modern genetics and biomedical research. Born in Stroud, Gloucestershire on January 1, 1941, he pursued his undergraduate studies at Christ's College, Cambridge before earning his PhD in anatomy and embryology from University College London in 1969. He established his research career at University College London as a lecturer in anatomy and embryology, then moved to the Department of Genetics at Cambridge University from 1978 to 1999 where his groundbreaking stem cell research began. Since 1999, he has served as Professor of Mammalian Genetics and Director of the School of Biosciences at Cardiff University, where he was appointed Chancellor from 2009 to 2017 and now holds the position of Professor Emeritus.
Evans' most seminal contribution was the first successful isolation and culture of embryonic stem cells from mice in 1981, which he accomplished in collaboration with Matthew Kaufman using delayed blastocysts. This breakthrough discovery enabled the development of gene targeting technology when combined with homologous recombination techniques, allowing for the creation of genetically modified 'knockout mice' with specific gene alterations. His research demonstrated that these embryonic stem cells could develop into fertile adult mice, establishing the foundation for studying gene function through targeted modifications. This transformative technology has accelerated medical research across numerous fields including cancer biology, cystic fibrosis, and developmental disorders, providing researchers with unprecedented tools to investigate disease mechanisms and potential therapies.
For his revolutionary contributions to stem cell biology and genetics, Evans received the 2007 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly with Mario Capecchi and Oliver Smithies, along with the prestigious Copley Medal from the Royal Society in 2009. His work has fundamentally reshaped biomedical research methodologies, enabling scientists worldwide to create precise animal models of human diseases that have advanced understanding of genetic disorders and therapeutic approaches. Knighted in 2004 for services to medical science, Evans was recognized by The Independent as one of ten Britons who shaped our world. His enduring legacy continues to influence generations of researchers, with embryonic stem cell technology remaining a cornerstone of modern genetic engineering and regenerative medicine research worldwide.
