In 1944, the UK and the USA had been invited by the Russian Government to nominate a scientist each to “visit Moscow to discuss advances in the field of medicine which, for security reasons, could not then be published”. Prof Howard Florey was asked by the Medical Research Council to represent the UK and nominated his colleague, Dr Gordon Sanders, a University Lecturer at the Dunn School, to accompany him. Prof Albert Baird Hastings, a biochemist from Harvard University, represented the U.S.A., accompanied by cancer researcher Dr. Michael Shimkin.

Isaac Wong (Raff lab) was given the opportunity to read through Dr Sanders’ diary and shared some highlights and his reflections on this unique trip and fascinatingly personal historical record. Isaac’s article is available to read in issue 22 of Fusion (page 18).

Front cover of Dr Sanders’ diary

Inside page to show the four scientists invited on this scientific mission to Moscow. Top left: Albert Baird Hastings, top right: Howard Florey, bottom left: Michael Shimkin, bottom rights: Gordon Sanders