Sir John Dacie MD, FRS, FCP, FRCPath 20 July 1912 - 12 February 2005

Abstract

There is no doubt that Prof. Sir John Dacie was one of the leading figures in haematology of the 20 th century. His detailed approach to the diagnosis of patients with haematological abnormalities through his meticulous attention to detail especially in the laboratory enabled him to define many new diseases such as the haemolytic anaemia’s. His contribution has laid the firm foundation for their further elucidation using the techniques of protein chemistry, red cell (RBC) membrane studies, and molecular biology. Unselfishly this annotation gives an account of his career, concentrating on his influence on haematological Biomedical Scientists throughout the world, and his role in the development of haematology both in the U.K. and internationally. It will also describe his approach to the practice of haematology from a clinical standpoint but perhaps more importantly in regard to Biomedical Scientists, the laboratory aspects of his work.