Tony Orchard

Anthony "Tony" Frederick Orchard (13 March 1941 – 19 August 2005) was a pioneer of inorganic chemistry. His research contributed to laying the foundations of much modern consumer electronic technology.

Tony Orchard was born in Carmarthen, Wales, and moved to Swansea. He studied Chemistry first at Wadham College, Oxford as an undergraduate and then towards a DPhil doctoral degree in theoretical inorganic chemistry at Merton College, Oxford. He left Merton College before he had completed his doctorate at the age of 26 to become a Fellow in Inorganic Chemistry at University College in Oxford. He stayed at University College until his death.

During the 1970s, Orchard led a group of researchers working in the area of photoelectron spectroscopy. This enabled scientists to examine the electronic structure of materials. The research was important for technological innovations in modern electronics, helping with the development of advances such as the personal computer and mobile phone. He published the book ''Magnetochemistry'' in 2003.

As well as his research contributions, Orchard also helped to improve the system of undergraduate applications for chemistry at Oxford University. Provided by Wikipedia