We are very sorry to let members know that Emeritus Professor Norman Greenwood, FRS, died on 14 November.

Having previously held a Chair at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Professor Greenwood came to Leeds in 1971 as Professor and Head of the Department of Inorganic and Structural Chemistry.  His research on solid-state chemistry and the chemistry of boron hydrides was of singular distinction and brought him many honours and awards, culminating in his election as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1987.  His prominence in his specialist field of research was paralleled by a deep-seated interest in, and commitment to, undergraduate education.  He was, for example, the senior author of what became an internationally best-selling text book in inorganic chemistry. 

By dint of his powers of incisive analysis, and his measured, thoughtful and effective contributions to debate, Professor Greenwood’s was one of the most highly-respected voices in the governance of the University.  He served continuously on the Senate from 1971 until his retirement in 1990; sat on many major committees; and served as the Chair of the Board of the Faculty of Science and of the School of Chemistry.  He was equally influential in many national and international scientific organisations. 

In retirement, Professor Greenwood remained, until very shortly before his death, a regular and welcome visitor to the School of Chemistry. 

The funeral details will be made known as soon as they become available.  An obituary is in preparation.