Tom Harris (botanist) facts for kids
Thomas Maxwell Harris was a famous English scientist. He studied ancient plants, which is called a paleobotanist. He was born on January 8, 1903, and passed away on May 1, 1983. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a big honor for scientists.
Early Life and Learning
Thomas Harris went to several schools. He studied at Bootham School in York. He also attended Wyggeston School in Leicester. Later, he went to University College, Nottingham. He finished his advanced studies at Christ's College, Cambridge.
A Career in Plant Science
In 1934, Tom Harris became a professor. He taught at the University of Reading. He worked in the department that studies plants, called botany. He even became the head of that department.
Professor Harris helped many students. He guided William Chaloner and Winifred Pennington. Both of these students later became professors too. The beautiful Harris Garden at the University of Reading is named after him. It is a special place for plants.
Harris was a very respected scientist. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society. From 1961 to 1964, he was the president of the Linnean Society of London. This society is important for natural history.
Awards and Honors
- 1968 Linnean Medal
