Dr Russell-Jones was educated at Rugby School (Leaving Exhibition) Cambridge University (Medical Scholar of Peterhouse) and St Thomas Hospital London. He qualified as a medical doctor in 1972, gained MRCP in 1974, FRCP in 1990 and FRCPath in 2002.

Dr Russell-Jones takes an active interest in the environment and regularly writes articles on  current issues.  He has also published several books.

He is a sports enthusiast.