Dr Stewart Paterson

We were sad to hear that Dr Stewart Paterson passed away in May 2025. Stewart worked at King’s for over 35 years and was a much-loved member of our community. Here, we pay him tribute.

Early discoveries

Stewart grew up in Stornoway on the Scottish Isle of Lewis, where his father was Secretary to the local Health Board. He studied Pharmacology at the University of Glasgow, before pursuing a PhD at the University of Aberdeen. Here, he joined Professor Hans Kosterlitz’s world-leading research group. Kosterlitz’s trailblazing team is responsible for numerous discoveries in the field of opioid pharmacology. Their work has paved the way for drug development over the past 50 years.

During this time, Stewart also published over 30 papers in various journals. Highlights include his characterisation of the ‘kappa’ opioid receptor – which impacts responses to pain, mood regulation and stress. Stewart’s groundbreaking research into this topic has played a pivotal role in the development of drug treatments for psychiatric disorders.

A cherished teacher

After graduating, Stewart’s expertise led him to London. He joined the United Medical and Dental Schools of Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals (which would later merge with King’s) and developed a passion for teaching.

As well as his sharp scientific mind, Stewart was known for his prodigious memory (including students’ names) and his encyclopaedic knowledge of King’s and its colleges. He chaired the Board of Examiners in Pharmacology and sat on the Academic and School Examination Boards, where his commitment to fairness and keen eye for detail came in handy.

A wonderful friend and colleague

Stewart was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, which made his skeleton vulnerable to traumatic damage and caused him a lot of physical pain. Despite this, Stewart remained committed to his work and his students.

Above all, Stewart will be remembered as a wonderful friend and colleague. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones at this time.

Details for this obituary were taken from the King’s website.