Martin Bennett is BHF Professor of Cardiovascular Sciences at the University of Cambridge. From his earliest days as a British Heart Foundation Clinician Scientist Professor Bennett undertook innovative research into the cell cycle of vascular smooth muscle cells. His subsequent work has provided a number of important advances in the field, notably regarding the role of cell apoptosis in atherosclerosis. In parallel with these achievements he has undertaken a full clinical training program as a Cardiologist and for the past several years has directed cardiac services in Addenbrooke’s Hospital.