Dudley Maurice Newitt facts for kids

Dudley Maurice Newitt (born April 28, 1894 – died March 14, 1980) was a brilliant British chemical engineer. He was honored with the Rumford Medal in 1962 for his amazing work in chemical engineering.

Early Life and War Hero

Dudley Newitt was born in London. He started his career as a chemist's assistant at a company called Nobel in Scotland.

Serving in World War I

During the First World War, he joined the East Surrey Regiment and showed great bravery. For his courage, he was awarded the Military Cross, a special medal given for acts of bravery during battle.

Family Life

In 1933, Dudley married Doris Garrod. They had a son and a daughter together.

Education and Secret War Work

In 1921, Dudley earned a top-notch degree in chemistry from the Royal College of Science in London. He then continued his studies in chemical engineering at Imperial College, London.

Helping in World War II

During the Second World War, Dudley played a very important role. He became the scientific director for the Special Operations Executive (SOE). This was a secret organization that developed special tools and technology for important missions during the war. His work helped create new ways to support the war effort. Because of his important contributions, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a big honor for scientists.

A Leader in Chemical Engineering

After the war, Dudley Newitt continued to make a big impact in the world of science and education.

Professor and Head of Department

In 1945, he became a professor of chemical engineering at Imperial College. By 1952, he was made the Head of the Department. He was in charge of building a brand-new facility for the department, which was finished in 1967.

College Leadership and Retirement

From 1956 until his retirement in 1961, he served as a senior leader at the college, called a pro-rector. Dudley Newitt passed away on March 14, 1980, in Farnham, Surrey.