Ralph Louis Wain facts for kids

Ralph Louis Wain was a very important British scientist. He was a chemist who focused on how chemistry could help with farming. He was born in Hyde, England, on May 11, 1911, and passed away in Canterbury, England, on December 14, 2000.

Early Life and Education

Ralph Louis Wain studied Chemistry at the University of Sheffield. He received a special scholarship to attend and earned very high grades. He completed several advanced degrees, including a Master of Science and a PhD. His main advisor during his studies was a scientist named G.M. Bennett.

Career and Research

Before World War II, Ralph Wain taught chemistry. He worked at the South Eastern Agricultural College, which was located in a place called Wye. He taught there until 1939.

During World War II, he moved to the Long Ashton Research Station. This station was part of the University of Bristol. Here, he did important research that likely helped with food production during the war.

After the war ended, Ralph Wain returned to Wye College. He became the head of the Chemistry Department. He also became a professor, holding the Chair of Agricultural Chemistry. This meant he was a leading expert in how chemistry applies to farming.

He also led a special group at Wye College. This group focused on "Plant Growth Substances" and "Selective Fungicides." Plant growth substances are chemicals that help plants grow better. Selective fungicides are chemicals that kill harmful fungi on plants without hurting the plants themselves.

Later in his career, in 1977, he became an honorary professor at the University of Kent in Canterbury. This means he was recognized for his great contributions to science.

Ralph Louis Wain was married and had two children.

Recognitions and Awards

Ralph Louis Wain received several important awards for his scientific work:

• 1988: He was awarded the Mullard Medal by the Royal Society.
• 1977: He received the Actonian Award from the Royal Institution of Great Britain.
• 1960: He earned the Research Medal from the Royal Agricultural Society.
• 1963: He was given the John Scott International Award.

His Writings

Ralph Louis Wain also shared his knowledge by writing articles. One of his notable works was:

• "Chemotherapy for plant diseases" – This article was published in a science magazine called The New Scientist on January 7, 1960. You can read it online here.