In memoriam: Professor Emeritus Ragnar Hultborn
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ragnar Hultborn, Professor Emeritus of Oncology, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife Lilian and their daughters, Helena and Lisa.
Ragnar Hultborn grew up in a family deeply rooted in medical research. His father was a distinguished surgeon and breast cancer researcher. Given this background, Ragnar’s path in medicine was a natural choice. He completed his medical degree in 1967 and earned his doctorate and associate professorship in histology in 1974.
He received his medical license in 1975 and became a specialist in oncology in 1981. In 2005, Ragnar was appointed Professor of Oncology at the Sahlgrenska Academy, where he served until his retirement.
Ragnar was a dedicated and inspiring teacher with a deep passion for sharing knowledge with medical students. He was also a significant research mentor to young physicians. His dedication and support were instrumental in the founding of Onkologlab, the experimental research laboratory at the oncology department of Sahlgrenska University Hospital.
Throughout his career, Ragnar contributed to many significant research projects and international clinical studies, particularly in the field of breast cancer. He was also a leading force in the development of Targeted Alpha Radioimmunotherapy, where the alpha-emitter Astatine was used in cancer treatment.
As a colleague and clinician, Ragnar showed great courage and honesty. He was never afraid to stand up for what he believed was right, and in clinical settings, his support was steady, even in the most difficult decisions and conversations. His passion for education and clinical advancement in oncology leaves a lasting mark on all of us who had the privilege of working with him.
We are deeply grateful for Ragnar’s contributions to our work and for having had him as a colleague. He will be profoundly missed.
Text: Per Karlsson och Khalil Helou