New President for Royal Society of Chemistry

An academic who has practised chemistry in three major UK cities is the new president of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Professor Jim Feast FRS- an organic materials chemist who has spent much of his career at Durham University - took over the presidency following the RSC's Annual General Meeting today.

He takes over from Dr Simon Campbell CBE FRS - who steps down after a two year tenure in which he has overseen many changes and exciting developments.

Professor Feast said: "When Simon Campbell phoned and asked if I was prepared to stand for election I was honoured and somewhat gob-smacked!"

Describing himself as an accidental chemist, he adds: "When deciding my A-level course, I was meandering toward the humanities group when the headmaster shouted 'Feast, this way!' and directed me into the science stream.

"Since I had no idea what to do in life, I followed instructions, hence my feeling I am an accidental chemist!"