It has been a privilege to pursue knowledge for its own sake and to see how it might help mankind in more practical ways.

My parents were neither wealthy nor academic, but we lived comfortably and they were always extremely supportive of my academic efforts and aspirations, both at school and university.

I was by far the youngest of the family, and at times it was like being an only child.

I felt strongly that since the pursuit of good science was so difficult it was essential that the problem being studied was an important one to justify the effort expanded.

I had a great time investigating the pigments of different mutant fruit flies by following experimental protocols published in Scientific American, and I also remember making my own beetle collection when it was still acceptable to make such collections.

I have an idealistic view of science as a liberalising and progressive force for humanity.

It has been a privilege to pursue knowledge for its own sake and to see how it might help mankind in more practical ways.