Such drama cannot be found in Sir Martin Evans's life, thankfully. But perhaps it exists in his work, because his discovery of embryonic stem cells has given scientists the key to treating a range of genetic conditions, from muscular dystrophy to diabetes. His finding allows these human diseases to be replicated in mice (called "knockout mice"), which means they can be studied in much greater detail.
Stem-cell research is not universally popular, of course. George Bush blocked public funding of such research, and anti-vivisectionists note that it has led to an explosion in animal testing. So far it is a field whose researchers can more easily point to potential benefits rather than actual achievements. But what benefits they are: Sir Martin has used gene therapy to make huge advances in treating cystic fibrosis. It is becoming ever more unusual for brilliant scientists to remain in the UK, rather than decamp for the resources of American universities. Yet the Gloucestershire-born scientist has stayed, and continues to work from his Cardiff campus. Britain punches above its weight in Nobel awards - especially in the sciences. Winners should be hailed, and youngsters taught about the difference they make.