Leitch, Archibald (1878–1931)

Scottish physician and bacteriologist, professor of experimental pathology at London University 1927–31. He devoted his life to the cause of cancer research, and specialized in studying the carcinogenic effects of substances such as tar and shale-oil.

Leitch was born on the island of Bute and educated at Rothesay Academy and Glasgow University. After working at the Middlesex Hospital, during World War I he was in charge of a mobile bacteriological laboratory. In 1920 he was appointed director of the research department at the Royal Cancer Hospital.