Peter Graham Kopelman

Physician with expertise in obesity and diabetes university administrator. Born London, UK, on June 23, 1951, he died there of leukaemia July 9, 2021, aged 70 years. Reaching the highest levels academia as a professor at Barts London School Medicine Dentistry, more than fulfilled Peter Kopelman's ambition to become doctor. As his brother Michael Kopelman, Emeritus Professor Neuropsychiatry King's College recalls, “Peter wanted do medicine from age about two or three…Our father was physician our mother nurse. Having decided very early that be doctor, never seriously wavered it.” Although remained academia, Kopelman later moved administration. But while this inevitably redirected focus attention, continued doing clinical work until official retirement. “The moment got into medical school took off.” graduated then St George's Hospital Medical 1974, returning registrar time when hospital involved pioneering surgical attempts tackle obesity: precursor today's gastric banding. Among colleagues Mills, cardiologist now retired Royal Hospital. “In days surgery stomach, closely follow-up patients make sure changes their metabolism didn't them ill. I think that's what started wider interest obesity.” Obesity, together diabetes, became main concerns. An active researcher, published genetic aspects obesity, its complications, neuroendocrine associated weight alterations. He also developed an public health obesity. did ward rounds assiduously, says teaching seriously. The many positions held included Presidency European Association for Study Obesity chairmanship Obesity. 1980 and, 6 years later, consultancy Newham Healthcare NHS Trust. joined acquiring professorship 1998. “When working clinically had obvious patients, particular physical emotional problems”, Mills who adds always set good example students. “I thought he'd remain research throughout career”, brother, “but administration”. Dean Education Vice-Principal Queen Mary University 2006, Executive Faculty Health East Anglia. In 2008 appointed Principal is George's, London. qualities led success these leadership roles “his overwhelming sense competence”, Mills. admits extent Peter's slightly surprised him, but reflection “even junior doctor quietly determined way”. Jenny Higham, over 2015, describes him kind dedicated man. “As graduate truly committed organisation best it, navigating through were tricky times.” 2018 future Vice-Chancellorship needed reconsidered, invited act interim year. Stiasny, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) Chief Worldwide, impressed by handling task. one my said, could master brief know questions ask. put people ease earned respect.” shortly before death. well prepared”, “If gave you opinion, it likely have been based sound understanding background subject. careful measured. And try project personality.” Stiasny summarises she sees essence man: “Good listening, organising, interested people, incredibly warm.” leaves wife, Sue, children Claire, Sarah, Tom.