We are very sad to share the news that David Dunger FMedSci, Professor Emeritus of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, passed away on 20th July 2021.
Professor Dunger received training in Paediatric Endocrinology at the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street. Between 1986 and 2000 he was Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist, and later Professor of Paediatric Endocrinology, at the John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford. In 2000 he moved to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge to take up a Chair in Paediatrics.
David was internationally renowned for his research into the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes and its complications in children and young people. His studies of genetic and environmental interactions during childhood growth have helped in determining risk for type 2 diabetes. He published over 600 peer reviewed papers and lead major international research consortia.
Professor Dunger was a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and recipient of numerous awards including the Andrea Prader Prize from the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology, the James Spence Prize from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, the James Tanner Award from the British Society of Paediatric Endocrinology, and the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes Prize of Achievement.
David’s wife, Dr Dame Jane Roberts, DBE, FRCPsych, said:
I am sorry to have to let you know that David died on 20 July, quietly at home with his family. Although he had been ill for quite some time, he was determinedly working until some weeks ago – and deeply frustrated when he was no longer able to do so. Funeral arrangements will be circulated as soon as they are known.
David will be greatly missed in the Department of Paediatrics and by colleagues and friends throughout the University, NHS and around the world.
If you would like to leave a message for David’s family, an electronic card has been set up here: https://www.groupgreeting.com/sign/84ad9399f2f5293
David H Rowitch, FMedSci, FRS
Professor of Paediatrics