Who was Kirsty Smitten? British scientist and Co-founder of MetalloBio dies aged 29

#Cancer #scientist

Renowned scientist Kirsty Smitten, a leader in antibiotic research, has passed away at 29, leaving a lasting legacy
Kirsty's work combating antimicrobial resistance earned her Forbes' 30 under 30 Europe recognition in 2020
MetalloBio, the company Kirsty co-founded, is committed to carrying on her mission in antibiotic development

Written By:Jenel Treza

Updated: October 09 2023 03:47:01 PM ET Britain

British scientist and MetalloBio co-founder Kirsty Smitten, known for her pioneering work in antibiotics, has sadly passed away at 29 from cancer.

Who is Kirsty Smitten?

Kirsty was named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Europe list in 2020 for her contributions to the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). She co-founded MetalloBio, a firm dedicated to developing new antibiotics to tackle AMR, a crucial issue that kills 1.2 million people worldwide each year.

There’s been lots of discussion about our amazing former PhD student Dr Kirsty Smitten recently. Kirsty is developing world-leading research into a new class of antibiotics while fighting an incredibly rare & aggressive form of heart cancer. Here's a short 🧵on an inspiring woman pic.twitter.com/RvULh37n1M
— The University of Sheffield (@sheffielduni) April 24, 2023

Also read | Who is Eunice Newton Foote? Google Doodle celebrates scientist and women’s rights activist

Kirsty was diagnosed with cardiac angiosarcoma in January and died from the disease on October 4. Matt Smitten, her brother, described her as determined, resilient, and kind. Despite the difficult circumstances, Kirsty persisted in her efforts to create antibiotics that could save many lives.

MetalloBio is keen on carrying on Kirsty’s quest, and is now working on two lead compounds to combat AMR. Kirsty’s legacy extends beyond her scientific accomplishments; her charitable attitude extended to assisting other cancer patients in dealing with their diagnoses. She used her experience to help others, becoming an inspiration and source of strength for many.

Kirsty’s family plans to form a charity in her name to ensure that her scientific work and care for cancer victims carry on. Her Instagram and TikTok accounts are still accessible to individuals looking for information about cardiac angiosarcoma.

Also read | Who was Andrey Botikov? Russian scientist behind Sputnik V Covid vaccine found dead at home

Kirsty Smitten’s unwavering commitment to science, humanitarian outlook, and passion to make a difference leave a lasting impression on the world at large, inspiring others to carry on her essential work.