Lewis Wolpert (1929-2021)

Abstract

Lewis Wolpert, who died on 28 January 2021, was an inspirational figure to generations of developmental biologists, and a man whose influence extended far beyond his subject. By seeing significance in the commonplace, and by identifying and re-framing research questions, he inspired new ways of thinking about embryonic development. As a teacher and as a lecturer he was nonpareil, and his ideas were brilliantly distilled in his textbook Principles of Development, which will continue to imbue students with his clarity of thought. In writing about his depression, Wolpert reduced the stigma associated with the disease and provided scientific understanding, solace and hope. An open, kind and generous man, he went out of his way to support young scientists.