Former Chair of Cancer Research UK, and H&I resident, Sir Leszek Krzysztof Borysiewicz was included in the King’s New Year’s Honours List 2025.
Sir Leszek was awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire for his services to cancer research, to clinical research, to medicine and to charities.
Known as Borys to family, friends and colleagues, he was knighted by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2001 for his involvement in Europe’s first trial of an HPV vaccine. Cancer Research UK says these research efforts have had an impact on cervical cancer rates around the world over the last 20 years.
And this latest honour, which is the highest rank available, recognises his ongoing services in representing the UK overseas and in international affairs with this work.
Championing medical research and innovation
Sir Leszek was Chair of Cancer Research UK (CRUK) for almost seven years from 2016 to 2023, and previously served as the 345th Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University and CEO of the Medical Research Council.
His role with CRUK involved championing cancer research and innovation. The charity says he continues to be a leading figure in the medical, academic and clinical cancer research community and inspires leaders and philanthropists to support its life-changing work.
Michelle Mitchell, the charity’s chief executive, said: “Ever since I got to know [Sir Leszek] when he appointed me as CEO six years ago, I saw what many already knew: he is an inspiration.
“At Cancer Research UK, he was relentless in his pursuit of excellence in cancer research and steadfast in his commitment to improving cancer outcomes both in the UK and globally.”
Tangible benefits to society
Sir Leszek is also a board member of UK Research and Innovation.
Its chief executive Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser added: “His visionary leadership and tireless dedication to advancing medical research and innovation have had a profound impact, not only in the UK but globally.
“Sir Leszek’s work has brought tangible benefits to patients and society at large.”
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