A researcher at the University of Cambridge has been identified as one of at least 69 victims who lost their lives in a deadly train crash in Spain earlier this week. Marta Shahbazi was traveling to receive the 2026 José Luis Gómez-Skarmeta prize for scientific excellence from the Spanish Society of Developmental Biology when the collision occurred. The incident took place on Wednesday near Urda, in the province of Toledo, when a high-speed Renfe service slammed into a stationary Iryo train.
Shahbazi served as a group leader at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) and was an affiliate assistant professor at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. Her professional work was dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of early human development, specifically focusing on how human embryos organize themselves and how cells make fate-determining decisions during embryonic implantation.
The LMB issued a statement expressing that they were deeply saddened by the tragic death of their colleague, describing her as an inspiring, talented, and passionate scientist. The laboratory noted that her passing is a profound shock and a huge loss, and they extended their thoughts to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. News of her death was also confirmed by the CiMUS research centre in Santiago de Compostela, which honored her as a brilliant young researcher. The centre expressed its support and deepest sympathies to their principal investigator, María José Alonso, following the death of her niece, Marta Shahbazi, in the railway accident that occurred on 28 October. Shahbazi had been en route to El Rompido, Huelva, to collect her award for her outstanding contributions to the study of the early stages of human development.
