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.

Therefore, I reasoned that study of the cell cycle responsible for the reproduction of cells was important and might even be illuminating about the nature of life.

It was during my time at secondary school that I abandoned religion.

At age 11 in 1960, I moved to an academic state secondary school, Harrow County Grammar School for Boys.

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

I think it was this curiosity about the natural world which awoke my early interest in science.

I am still a keen mountain walker and an enthusiastic glider pilot.