Michael Blackman is a Principal Group Leader at the Francis Crick Institute. His research has transformed understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying host cell entry and exit by the malaria parasite and related intracellular pathogens. His work has continuously focused on translating fundamental knowledge into new therapeutic approaches to malaria control, including the development of protease inhibitors as drugs. He makes significant contributions to the training of young scientists and clinicians, including a network called InterMalTraining, dedicated to the training of 14 PhD students from across Europe, Africa and India, of which he was scientific coordinator.