Athelstan Beckwith facts for kids

Athelstan Laurence Johnson Beckwith was a very important Australian chemist. He was born on February 20, 1930, and passed away on May 15, 2010. He was recognized as a top scientist. He became a Fellow of the Royal Society and a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. He also received the Order of Australia award.

Life

Athelstan Beckwith studied chemistry at the University of Western Australia. He earned his first degree there in 1952. Later, he continued his studies at the University of Oxford in England. He received his advanced degree (called a DPhil) from Oxford in 1956.

His excellent work was recognized early on. In 1960, he won the Rennie Memorial Medal for his research. The next year, he received a special scholarship. This allowed him to study with another famous chemist, Sir Derek Barton.

He shared his knowledge by teaching at the University of Adelaide. From 1981 to 1995, he was a Professor. He taught Organic Chemistry at the Australian National University. In 2004, he received a high honor. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia. This award was for his great service to science. He was a leading researcher and academic. He also advised the government and community on science.

Family

Athelstan Beckwith was married. He and his wife had three children.