The Society is sad to hear of the death of member Professor Cecil Kidd, who passed away on 27 July 2023. Professor Kidd was greatly involved in several aspects of The Society, dedicating almost 20 years of his life to our work and activities. He initially served as Chair (1977-81) before going onto be a designated member of the Council (1981-84). He was also a prominent figure for our journals. In his role as Chief Editor for Experimental Physiology (1987 – 1994), he played a fundamental part in shaping the journal into the internationally recognised home for research it is today. During his time as Chief Editor for Experimental Physiology, he was also an Editorial Board member for Monographs (1987-94).

Professor Kidd trained in physiology at King’s College, Newcastle-upon-Tyne (now known as Newcastle University) where his early research interests were in reflex control of the gastrointestinal tract. While working at the University of Leeds, he devoted his time to studying cardiac receptors and their central nervous connections and reflex responses. This remained the major interest throughout his career, while also exploring the potential roles of nitric oxide in the autonomic control mechanisms of the heart. He became Regius Chair of Physiology at the University of Aberdeen, working as head of the department until his retirement.

Professor Kidd taught medical students, physiology, biomedical science undergraduates and physical therapists. He wanted to underline the role of physiology to help in the clinically understanding and treatment of conditions.

He co-authored two textbooks, both aimed at medical and health students. In 2001, Professor Kidd, Andrew Davies and Asa Blakeley published ‘Human Physiology’. In 2005, Professor Kidd published ‘Case-based Medical Physiology’ co-written with Professor Christopher Bell and Professor Trefor Morgan. It was filled with discussions of patient case studies to improve understanding of basic physiological mechanisms and common conditions that occur because of disordered physiology.