After some minor pieces of theoretical study that I worked on, a student in my statistical mechanics class brought to my attention a problem in polyelectrolytes.

Being exposed to theory, stimulated by a basic love of concepts and mathematics, was a marvelous experience.

During my McGill years, I took a number of math courses, more than other students in chemistry.

After some minor pieces of theoretical study that I worked on, a student in my statistical mechanics class brought to my attention a problem in polyelectrolytes.

About 1960, it became clear that it was best for me to bring the experimental part of my research program to a close - there was too much to do on the theoretical aspects - and I began the process of winding down the experiments.

My education at Baron Byng High School was excellent, with dedicated masters (boys and girls were separate).

My life as a working theorist began three months after this preliminary study and background reading, when Oscar gently nudged me toward working on a particular problem.