Lab opens in memory of Nobel winner

THE UNIVERSITY of Sheffield has opened a new laboratory dedicated to inspiring the scientists of the future in memory of a graduate who went on to win a Nobel Prize.

Sir Harry Kroto won the award for chemistry in 1996 for his part in the discovery of buckminsterfullerene – carbon atoms in the form of a ball – also known as “buckyballs”.

The laboratory, in the institution’s Dainton Building, was funded by donations from alumni.

Alongside his innovative research, Sir Harry was also passionate about teaching and encouraging young people to be engaged with science. He returned to the university each year to run buckyball workshops.

Sir Keith Burnett, president and vice-chancellor, said: “Harry was a tremendous friend to the University of Sheffield. He was an exceptional force of good in the world of science both at the cutting edge of atomic structure and nanotechnology, as well as introducing children to the joy science can bring.

“Sheffield is immensely proud of what he has achieved in his life and we are proud to continue his legacy of sharing science to people of all ages.”

Lady Margaret Kroto, who was unable to attend the opening, said: “The most important thing is that this wonderful facility will help to achieve Harry’s vision of giving young people the opportunity to explore science in an exciting and hands on way.”

Sir Harry died in April 2016.