James Wilfred Bridges (1938–2026)

It is with sadness that we announce the death of our Emeritus Professor James (Jim) Wilfred Bridges, who died at home on 10 April 2026. Our condolences and thoughts are with his wife, Olga, family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.

Many members of the University of Surrey will remember Jim for his support, mentorship, career guidance and his convivial personality. I first knew Jim as a student and he was my mentor and friend who steered me through my career at Surrey and beyond with his kindness and enthusiasm. He was at the forefront of the science and an advocate for toxicology. Jim had an unassuming, reserved intellect which is an example to us all.

Jim was born on 9 August 1938 in Kent. He gained his BSc in 1960, his PhD in 1963 and his DSc in 1992 from the University of London. He was seen as a prominent expert in toxicology and environmental health. Jim's knowledge of general toxicology was extensive with his main areas of expertise focused on chemical risk assessment, in vitro toxicology (non-animal testing methods), sustainability of chemicals and environmental health policy, particularly concerning aerotoxic syndrome. Jim was listed as a noteworthy pathologist, toxicologist, educator and consultant by the Marquis Who's Who. 

Jim’s career spanned over 60 years working as a research assistant (1960–1962) and lecturer (1962–1968) at St. Mary's Hospital Medical School, University of London before moving to the University of Surrey.

In 1968 he joined the University of Surrey as a senior lecturer and then in 1978 became Professor of Toxicology and Director of the Robens Institute (1978–1988) which was a pioneering multidisciplinary entity focusing on industrial health, safety and hygiene. From 1988–1992, Jim became Dean of Science and Head of the European Institute of Health and Medical Sciences at Surrey. Jim’s career at the University of Surrey spanned nearly 60 years. In his career, he wrote more than 700 scientific papers, authored at least 18 books (one still due to be published) and chaired many international conferences.

Jim held visiting appointments at the University of Rochester (USA), the University of Texas (USA), the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (USA) and the National Research Institute (Mexico City).

Jim served on numerous scientific committees during his career. In the UK this included the Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT), which is concerned with workplace safety, veterinary drugs, chemical residues in food and air, soil and water quality. He was chair of several EU committees including the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) and the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE). He also served on ECETOC, JECFA, ILSI Europe, EFSA and the European Economics Commission. Jim remained fully active and engaged in providing toxicological advice to numerous committees until his death.

Jim was always a great advocate for toxicology. In 1971 Jim, together with Professor Ron Walker and other eminent toxicologists, formed the Toxicology Club at the University of Surrey which in 1979 became what is now the British Toxicology Society (BTS). He was President of the Society (1980–1982) and served on several of its committees. Jim was also a founder member of the Federation of European Societies of Toxicology (EUROTOX)  and in 1987 was elected president. He also founded the European Drug Metabolism Workshops.

In recognition of his distinguished service in the pursuit of both the BTS’s and EUROTOX’s objectives and activities fostering toxicology, both scientifically and educationally, Jim was awarded an honorary fellowship of both the BTS and EUROTOX. He was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Biology and the Royal College of Pathologists.

In addition to his professional expertise and enthusiasm, Jim was a deeply learned man with a fine knowledge of classical music, literature and theatre.

As one of the key influences and pillars in toxicology, Jim has left a lasting legacy, primarily through co-founding the BTS and EUROTOX, educational programmes, and pioneering toxicology assessments for chemicals which has influenced policy in the UK and globally. His work bridged the gap between academic research and regulatory policy in the UK and Europe. Jim will be sorely missed by all those who knew him. 

Professor Shirley Price OBE MSc, PhD, FBTS, FRSB, FHEA ,FRSC, FBPhS

Emerita Professor of Toxicology

University of Surrey