I am the grateful recipient of the 2019 Easterfield Award, but due to the COVID pandemic, I was unable to undertake the UK lecture tour until 2023. The Easterfield Award is awarded biennially to a chemist in New Zealand in recognition of the quality and originality of their research. The trip was worth the wait and an incredible experience. I had the privilege of meeting brilliant scientists and gaining invaluable insights into their challenges, extending beyond the usual funding concerns. Interestingly, there were more commonalities than differences, especially around issues like student engagement and lecture attendance. What follows is a brief account of my week-long UK tour.
I arrived in London on Wednesday evening, afflicted with severe jet lag after a restless night in a hotel next to Paddington Station and I boarded a train bound for Bristol. Bristol, a city steeped in history and culture, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, stunning architecture, and world-class universities. The University of Bristol boasts a rich heritage, with its iconic Wills Memorial Building standing as a testament to the city's past. This magnificent structure, a gift from the Wills tobacco family, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture.
On Friday morning, still struggling with the time zone change, I embarked on a short walk to the Bristol Chemistry Department to meet my host, Professor Chris Willis. In addition to my seminar, I had the privilege of engaging with faculty members, discussing their cutting-edge research projects, the pros and cons of CDT's (Centres for Doctoral Training) as well as more broad topics such as the future of organic chemistry. Of particular note was meeting with Kiwi expat Professor Craig Butts (BSc and PhD, the University of Canterbury). One of his major research interests is centred around developing machine learning software to accurately and rapidly predict NMR parameters, which includes accounting for stereochemical and conformational effects.
On Saturday morning, I departed from Bristol Temple Meads Station, embarking on a scenic four-hour train journey through the English countryside. The train passed through major cities like Leeds and Sheffield, offering glimpses of the nation's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Upon arriving in York, I was immediately captivated by its medieval charm. The city's historic centre, with its winding cobblestone streets and magnificent York Minster, is a sight to behold. Established in 1963, the University of York is one of the UK's leading research institutions. It was there that I met my host, Dr Will Unsworth, and spent the day meeting with faculty and touring the newly built state-of-the-art teaching laboratories. Of note was the Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence (GCCE) at York which is a world-leading academic facility pioneering green and sustainable chemistry, currently headed by Professor Helen Sneddon. In addition, I also met with New Zealander and University of Otago graduate, Dr Anne Routledge. That evening, I joined Will and Dr Chris Spicer for tapas and drinks in the heart of York.
With jetlag replaced by a hangover, the following morning I boarded a train bound for Edinburgh. As the train snaked its way through rolling hills and quaint villages, I was awestruck by the breathtaking landscapes. Upon arriving in Edinburgh, I met up with my host, Professor Andy Lawrence. After exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a fortress perched atop a volcanic crag overlooking the city, we visited a whiskey bar followed by dinner in the old town.
The next day, I spent time with the chemistry department faculty, learning about their cutting-edge research projects and touring their impressive research and teaching laboratories. As the week drew to a close, I boarded a train back to London, and, from there, embarked on a long-haul flight home to Dunedin, New Zealand.
It was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and forge new relationships. Returning home to New Zealand, I felt inspired and motivated. This trip provided an invaluable opportunity to engage with the international scientific community and gain fresh perspectives on my own research. I am truly grateful to both the NZIC and RSC for this experience.
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