Earliest days of the UNF

In the space of some 40 minutes he explained to me his plans for the new Unit. It would have ten research staff, half of them microbiologists - as he described them - with appropriate support staff graduate students and post-docs would pass through. New laboratories would be built for it, but where was not yet clear finding temporary lab. accommodation would be a priority on his return to the UK. I was impressed by his enthusiasm and shared his view of the need for basic research in that area, but it all seemed a little tentative. 

I do not recall much more about the interview. It was low key and we parted thoughtfully.  

The Unit moved gradually into the forefront of its research area and gained a formidable reputation both nationally and internationally. It became a para- 

The UNF s biological research catalysed many important discoveries in other laboratories, as well as prompting re-thinks in general enzymology, microbial physiology, genetics and evolutionary theory. In the space available I can only touch upon a few highlights without detailed citations (see Section 6). 

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