Sir Dai Rees obituary
As its head from the late 1980s, the research scientist Sir Dai Rees, who has died aged 85, revolutionised the way the Medical Research Council (MRC) interacted with industry. In this respect, he was a visionary: he understood the importance of a successful interface between basic research and industry, including its impact on attracting public funds.
Under his leadership, centres were established with strong industrial links, with the aim of encouraging the practical application of MRC research and inventions. The work of these centres contributed to the development of the blockbuster" Keytruda antibody for cancer treatment, and of the world's top-selling pharmaceutical drug, the antibody Humira, which treats rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.
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