Life depends on DNA being accurately passed on during cell replication. This process is under constant duress due to metabolic mistakes and through external environmental sources. Cells have a number of mechanisms that detect and repair this damage, thereby reducing the likelihood of disease such as cancer. Jiri Lukas has made it his life's work to shed light on this defence system. He has made a series of key discoveries in the field, and, in recognition, will next week receive the French ARC Foundation's Leopold Griffuel Award at a ceremony in Paris. Here, he explains his belief that scientists who wont to break new ground must give their curiosity free rein, keep taking on challenges and stay open to fresh ideas.
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