About Us - Our History - Michael Smith Biography

Dr. Michael Smith was a pre-eminent BC scientist and internationally ranked authority on molecular biology and the use of chemically synthesized DNA fragments in genetic studies. Dr. Smith received a Nobel Prize in 1993. When he died in October 2000, a flood of tributes described a man of many aspects: an inspired scientist, a humanitarian, a humble and generous man who was loved for his humour and gifts as a mentor and friend.

Video tribute to Dr. Michael Smith

Vancouver Sun (excerpt from Oct 6, 2000 editorial)
Nobel laureate Michael Smith, who died this week at age 68, was a bona fide superstar. The molecular biologist was born in Britain and lived and worked in BC for more than 40 years. But he built his reputation on the global stage.

As a man of science, his formal contributions were in the area of gene research. For his accomplishments, he was awarded the 1993 Nobel Prize for chemistry (shared with Californian Dr. Kary Mullis) and was inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. He garnered a long list of other honours, including Companion of the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia and fellow of the Royal Society of London.

This was all sufficient to impress. But as a teacher, ethicist, philanthropist, advocate for research funding and humanitarian causes, Dr. Smith rose above the ivory tower of science.

On his work as a pre-eminent scientist
"The methods he developed to manipulate genes laid the groundwork for the tremendous advances in the understanding of cancer that have happened in the last 20 years. His was clearly one of the key advances that moved science forward - and not just a little bit. It was a giant leap."
Bob Phillips, Executive Director, National Cancer Institute of Canada

On his scientific drive
"He had a single mindedly strong belief in science. He believed that top-notch research could be done, and should be done by Canadians - and that this was going to be of great impact to the country, not only for good health, but for our economy."
John Dirks, President, Gairdner Foundation

On his curiosity
"It was enchantment with knowledge. It is the underlying nature of the truly creative mind that will not settle until it has a solution."
Simon Sutcliffe, President and CEO, BC Cancer Agency

On the man
"We lost a colleague, a creative and distinguished scientist and friend, a warm and humble man known for his humanity and generosity."
Barry McBride, Vice President, Academic & Provost, UBC

"He donated his Nobel Prize winnings to schizophrenia research and to help promote the advancement of Canadian women in science. And after being given the 1999 Royal Bank Award for "significant contributions to human welfare," Dr. Smith promptly donated the $125,000 companion grant to the BC Cancer Foundation. He was insightful, had a great sense of human�we will miss him."
Victor Ling, Vice President Research, BC Cancer Agency