Professor Alan Bull, Emeritus Professor in the School of Biosciences was honoured recently on being elected a Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales.
Alan’s distinguished career in microbiology extends over 56 years; he remains research active and holds Emeritus and Honorary Professorships in British universities. He has pursued fundamental questions in science but with the ambition to see results applied to problems in industry, the environment, and germane to developing countries. The impact of this work is found in direct uptake by industries, and shaping government policies, for example, in relation to the development of biotechnology. His professional standing is attested by a consistent output of high quality publication of original research; national and international speaking engagements; the large number and diversity of public service commitments (invited government, NGO and professional society appointments); and recognition as a successful teacher and supervisor. Committed to a wider understanding of science his outreach activities include interacting with local (community groups) and national (e.g. British Science Festival) organizations. Life-long family ties have engendered a love of Wales and things Welsh.