Queen Mary has recognised the contributions of its former graduate and government scientist Professor Robert (Bob) Watson by electing him an Honorary Fellow of the College, in a recent ceremony. Professor Watson began his scientific career at what was then Queen Mary College, University of London in 1966, graduating with first class honours in Chemistry in 1969, followed by a PhD in Gas Phase Chemical Kinetics in 1973. After working in the United States for NASA, White House and World Bank, he returned to the UK in 2007 to become Chief Scientific Advisor to the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and is also currently Director for Strategic Development, University of East Anglia's climate research institute, the Tyndall Centre.
Professor Peter Heathcote, Head of the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, praised Watson, saying, "The scientific community recognises the sustained and significant contributions made by Bob Watson to research into atmospheric science. The wider community is also indebted to Bob Watson. He has not only made significant contributions to the debate around global warming, but admirably served international and national organisations in the fields of environmental science, promoting biodiversity, impeccable agricultural practice and sustainable development that serve all humanity."
Reported on Physorg.com and Queen Mary News.