Influenced by him, and probably even more so by my brother Theodore (a year older than me), I soon became interested in biology and developed a respect for the importance of science and the scientific method.

Initially I had intended to study medicine, but before going to University I had decided that I would be better suited to a career in which I could concentrate my activities and interests more on a single goal than appeared to be possible in my father’s profession.

After taking my B.A. degree in 1939 I remained at the University for a further year to take an advanced course in Biochemistry, and surprised myself and my teachers by obtaining a first class examination result.

It seemed to me that here was a way to really understand living matter and to develop a more scientific basis to many medical problems.

From 1944 to 1951 I held a Beit Memorial Fellowship for Medical Research, and since 1951 I have been on the staff of the Medical Research Council.

I had remained in Cambridge concentrating only on basic research and avoiding as far as possible teaching or administrative responsibilities.

Through art and science in their broadest senses it is possible to make a permanent contribution towards the improvement and enrichment of human life and it is these pursuits that we students are engaged in.

I and my colleagues here have been engaged in the pursuit of knowledge.

Initially I had intended to study medicine, but before going to University I had decided that I would be better suited to a career in which I could concentrate my activities and interests more on a single goal than appeared to be possible in my father's profession.

Influenced by him, and probably even more so by my brother Theodore a year older than me, I soon became interested in biology and developed a respect for the importance of science and the scientific method.