Sir Paul Callaghan
1947 - 2012
It is with great sadness that ISMAR announces that Sir Paul Callaghan
died from cancer March 24, 2012 at the age of only 64. He was an eminent figure
in science in New Zealand and in NMR of materials. He is most known for his
pioneering work combining rheology and NMR to unravel the flow behaviour of
complex systems such as liquid crystals and polymer melts. These developments
reach far beyond NMR and clearly represent landmarks of our field. His book on
NMR Microscopy is a classic. He was a brilliant lecturer and gave
remarkably clear, incisive talks at meetings; as a result, he was highly
sought as a plenary speaker. His achievements have been recognized by
numerous honours, prizes, and recognitions throughout the world.
Sir Paul Callaghan served as President of the International Society of
Magnetic Resonance from 2008 to 2010 and did a tremendous job in this capacity.
He initiated the concept of ISMAR Fellows in order to recognize eminent
scientists in our field, and defined strategic goals for ISMAR’s future. Though
his severe illness often prevented him from travelling during his presidency,
we were all extremely impressed by how much ISMAR mattered to him. Until very
recently, no ISMAR action was taken without Paul’s involvement and approval.
The International Society of Magnetic Resonance mourns its former
President and Fellow of our Society. We feel privileged to have had the
opportunity to work so closely with him for several years. On behalf of the
Executive Committee and all the members of ISMAR, I express my deep gratitude.
Sir Paul’s stature in science, teaching and economic development in
New Zealand were covered quickly and substantially in the international press –
e.g.
We hold him in highest esteem and will express our appreciation at the
upcoming ISMAR Conference to be held in Brazil next year.
Hans Wolfgang Spiess
