John Rose (chemist) facts for kids

John Donald Rose (born January 2, 1911 – died October 14, 1976) was an important British chemist who worked in factories and industries. He spent most of his career, from 1935 to 1972, at a big company called Imperial Chemical Industries, often known as ICI.

At ICI, he held many important jobs, including leading research and being in charge of the paints division. He was also a respected member of a very old group called the Worshipful Company of Salters.

John Donald Rose's Life and Work

Early Life and Education

John Donald Rose was born in a place called Greasbrough, near Rotherham in Yorkshire, on January 2, 1911. He went to Rotherham Grammar School. Later, in 1929, he went to Jesus College, Oxford University to study chemistry.

He earned his first degree in 1932. He then continued his studies for another year with a famous chemist named Robert Robinson, getting another degree in 1933. He even received a special scholarship that allowed him to continue his research and spend a year studying in Switzerland.

Working at ICI

In 1935, John Rose started his career as a research chemist at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in Blackley, Manchester. One of his early tasks was to help test a brand-new material called nylon.

During World War II, he was part of a team that thought about new types of businesses ICI could start after the war ended.

Rising Through the Ranks

John Rose quickly moved up in ICI. In 1949, he became an associate research manager. By 1951, he was the director of research. During this time, ICI worked on important new products like Procion dyes (used to color fabrics) and Terylene, which is a type of artificial fiber used in clothing and other products.

In 1958, he became the production director, overseeing how things were made. The next year, in 1959, he became a joint managing director and later the chairman of the paints division. This meant he was in charge of all the paint products ICI made.

His last big job at ICI was in 1966, when he became the research and development director. He retired from ICI in 1972.

Later Achievements and Retirement

John Rose was recognized for his important contributions to science. In 1971, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in the UK. He was also a vice-president of the Society of Chemical Industry in 1968.

After leaving ICI, he continued to be active. He was a director at another company called Laporte Industries and led the Fulmer Research Institute. He also helped guide the University of Salford and received an honorary science degree from them in 1972. In 1973, he became the Master of the Salters' Company.

John Donald Rose passed away on October 14, 1976, at his home in Chalfont St Peter.