On her way to collect an award, British scientist among 69 killed in Spain train disaster
Scientist confirmed among victims
Dr Shahbazi led a laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and was an affiliate associate professor at Cambridge’s Stem Cell Institute. Her employer first said her whereabouts were unknown after the crash. Her death was confirmed late on Saturday by Spanish research centre CiMUS.
The Laboratory of Molecular Biology said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic death of our colleague,” according to the institute. It described Shahbazi as “an inspiring, talented and passionate scientist,” and said her death was a profound shock and loss. The institute also offered condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
Career focused on human development
Her research examined early human development and brought her international acclaim in mammalian embryogenesis. She had been travelling to receive an award from the Spanish Society for Developmental Biology.
Crash and national mourning
The collision happened on Wednesday near Toledo when a state-operated Renfe AVE train struck the rear of another train. Multiple carriages derailed, and several fell down an embankment. More than 100 people were injured, with dozens hospitalised in serious condition.
Key points
- Dr Marta Shahbazi was travelling to collect an award when she was killed.
- The 41-year-old Cambridge researcher studied early human development.
- At least 69 people died and more than 100 were injured in the crash near Toledo.
- Spain declared three days of national mourning.