Cardiff University honours Professor John Pickett's 80th birthday with a chemical ecological symposium

Cardiff University recently hosted a symposium to celebrate the 80th birthday of Professor John Pickett CBE FRS, a distinguished figure in the field of chemical ecology and other aspects of biological chemistry.

The event brought together distinguished colleagues and former students to honour Professor Pickett's pioneering research and enduring contributions to science.

Professor Pickett shared that “This was a truly wonderful event and sees my move to Cardiff University as an opportunity to research new opportunities in chemistry for sustainability, and succession into these area of biological chemistry.”

The symposium featured presentations from leading scientists, including Professor Sarah O’Connor FRS, Director at the Max Planck Institute of Chemical Ecology in Jena, Germany, and Professor of Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry at the University of Nottingham. Their talks underscored the foundational role of Professor Pickett's early work in identifying insect pheromones, which paved the way for significant progress in understanding the chemical communication of pests such as aphids and sandflies. Professor Pickett’s discoveries of the terpene sex pheromones of major insect pests affecting glasshouse and temperate arable crops, as well as the sex-related aggregation pheromones of sandflies, have pioneered advancements in chemical ecology.

Professor Owen Jones, Honorary Professor in the School of Chemistry at Cardiff University, also spoke at the event, highlighting Professor Pickett's influence on the commercial development of pheromones and other semiochemicals. He acknowledged Professor Pickett's position among the global leaders who have made landmark discoveries in the field.

The symposium was chaired by Professor Deborah Kays, Head of the School of Chemistry at Cardiff University, who praised Professor Pickett for his inspirational enthusiasm and significant contributions to chemical research.

Professor Deborah Kays, Head of School, shared: "It was a privilege to host Professor Pickett's 80th birthday symposium and to celebrate his significant contributions to chemical ecology, which continue to shape our understanding and approach to sustainable solutions. John's groundbreaking research inspires our current students and colleagues but also continues to pave the way for innovations in biological chemistry in Cardiff and on a global scale."

Professor Pickett's illustrious career includes over 500 publications and numerous accolades, such as the Wolf Prize in Agriculture and election to the Royal Society and the National Academy of Sciences (USA). His work has had a profound impact on sustainable agriculture and pest management practices worldwide.

As Professor Pickett celebrates this milestone, the scientific community reflects on his enduring legacy and the pathways he has opened for future research in chemical ecology.

Happy 80th Birthday, Professor Pickett!