15 Feb 2012
We talk to SCI Trustee Prof Clive Thompson about his career and how he got to his current position as chief scientist at ALcontrol Laboratories, UK
What does your current job
involve?
I am charged with the development of an
integrated overall scientific development
programme for ALcontrol. Alongside
that, I find and develop new business
opportunities, liaise with clients with
regard to scientific back-up, special
projects and other key issues, including
emergency incident issues.
I carry out consultancy work and represent ALcontrol on various national and international committees, including BSi, CEN and ISO.
I also used to have responsibility for running the LEAP (Laboratory Environmental Analysis Proficiency) Testing Schemes for potable water; effluents; emergency incidents; contaminated land; bacteriological and Cryptosporidium, for 15 years before they were sold to CSL (now Food and Environment Agency - Fera). Even now, I still act as an adviser to Fera for the LEAP Scheme.
Did you have an interest in
science from childhood?
Very much so. At 12, I had a really
inspirational chemistry master, I never
ever considered a career in any other
discipline.
How did you decide that you
wanted a career in science?
In 1957, the practical aspects of chemistry
really attracted me to the subject. We had
a shed converted into a laboratory in our
back garden. I dread to think what the
2011 health and safety authorities would
do if they came across an equivalent
laboratory now. The local chemist sold me
virtually any chemical that I requested.
This would not happen now.
What motivated you to pursue
postgraduate studies?
The love of research and publishing
papers in new areas of analytical science.
What has your experience
ascending the career ladder
been like?
I have been really fortunate in my career,
which has been more like a hobby.
I started out as a university lecturer
at Imperial College. I then spent six
years designing and marketing atomic
spectroscopic equipment for Shandon
Southern Instruments.
I worked for five years at Severn Trent Water as a deputy laboratory manager at its Malvern Regional laboratory and I've been with my present employer since 1980; initially in sewage works treatment optimisation, then as a laboratory manager for 15 years, before becoming chief scientist.
I've served on numerous committees, and presented lectures at many national and international conferences. In later years I've been involved in organising many such events. Also, for the last 30 years I've been actively involved in BSI/ CEN and ISO standardisation work as well as Standing Committee of Analysts (SCA) work.
What are the most important
things you've learned in your
career so far?
Firstly, one never stops learning. In fact
the older one gets, the more one realises
how much there is that you do not know.
It is important to keep updating and
expanding one's CPD. Secondly, gain the
respect of your staff and do all you can to
aid their development.
Thirdly, build up a wide network of useful contacts. If a client asks me a question that I am unable to answer, somebody in my network of contacts will almost always be able to help. This also means that one must also promptly respond to queries from network colleagues whenever possible.
What would you have done
differently?
I would have started studying biological
and microbiological sciences whilst still
at school, not in evening classes with a
full-time job.
What would you say have been
the key milestones in your
career?
The development of a number of atomic
spectroscopic techniques, associated
instrumentation and some patents;
helping to organise a large number of
successful international conferences
covering a wide range of topics; and
developing an ecotoxicology laboratory.
I've also gained Fellowship status in
RSC, CIWEM and RSPH and was recipient
of the 2003 SCI Environmental Medal for
distinguished and sustained achievement
in the areas of preservation, improvement
of understanding the environment.
I was awarded the Distinguished Service Certificate from British Standards in appreciation of long and valued contributions to the development of British, European and International Standards, as well as assisting in the development of the Open University Foundation Degree in Analytical Sciences. This apprenticeship type qualification effectively brings back HNC/HNDs in analytical chemistry and microbiology. If you want a job done well in a laboratory, 'ask an HNC/HND'.
What key things would a young
person need to do if they
wanted to get to the position
you've achieved thus far?
Have a thirst for knowledge and never
rest on their laurels; show respect for all
colleagues, persuade their employer of
the various benefits of serving on relevant
committees; and finally: work hard.
Visit Blog