Martin Onslow Forster facts for kids

Sir Martin Onslow Forster (born 1872, died 1945) was a brilliant chemist. He was also a director at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, India. He was a FRS, which is a big honor for scientists.

Early Life and Education

Martin Onslow Forster was born in Lambeth, London, in 1872. He was one of four children. From a young age, he showed a strong interest in chemistry.

He went to Finsbury Technical College to study chemistry. Later, he continued his studies in Germany. He worked with a famous chemist named Emil Fischer. There, he earned his Ph.D. degree in 1892.

After his studies, Martin Forster returned to England. He worked with other important scientists. He researched interesting topics, like the chemistry of camphor. Camphor is a waxy, flammable substance with a strong smell. In 1895, he became a demonstrator in chemistry. He later became an assistant professor of chemistry in 1902.

A Career in Chemistry

In 1913, Martin Forster decided to retire. He thought about getting involved in politics. Politics is about how a country is governed. However, he soon returned to the world of chemistry.

In 1914, he became a consultant for the dye industry. This industry makes colors for fabrics and other materials. In 1915, he led a special committee for British Dyes Limited. He became a director of the company in 1916. Later, he joined the Salters' Institute of Industrial Chemistry. This allowed him to continue his experiments.

Leadership in India

Martin Forster was known as a great speaker. However, some people in Britain thought his leadership skills were not the best. He was seen as a bit distant.

His career in India, however, was very successful. He became the director of the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. He was recommended for this important role. His way of managing the institute earned him a lot of respect. Both the staff and students admired him. He officially retired in 1927. At that time, he was given a special honor called a knighthood. Even after retiring, he stayed at the institute until 1933. He then settled in Mysore, India.

Personal Life

Martin Forster was married twice. He first married Madeleine Nichols in 1907. Later, in 1925, he married Elena Josefina. He did not have any children. Martin Onslow Forster passed away in Mysore, India, in 1945.