I first met Paul learning how to use a quill pen to sign his name on parchment. Paul liked doing quirky things, but this was different–his election as a Fellow of the Royal Society of London. Paul's reputation as a scientist is well recognised, but only when you talk with his international colleagues is it apparent how intellectually brave he was. He took on a problem considered far too hard–understanding the properties of fluids and colloids at the atomic scale. His work in fluids and the related areas of nanotechnology and magnetic resonance was not only important basic science, but Paul saw its application in many areas from food science to the founding of Magritek.
Paul believed in collaborative science and mentorship. As founding director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, he played a major role in influencing the now critical role that Centres of Research Excellence play in the New Zealand science system. He used the Institute to show that innovative science had to play its part in outreach to the public and young people. As President of the Academy Council of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Paul provided leadership to the scientific community.
In the last decade Paul became our most publically recognised scientist, and in a way that led him to be warmly received by all. He was able to talk about science and the philosophy of science in a most accessible and honest manner. He used the media and his books to project his belief that New Zealand could become a better place through science and more effective use of its latent innovative capacity. He was a strong advocate for the physical sciences and the potential of high value manufacturing. Public recognition deservedly came: Fellowship of the Royal Societies of New Zealand and London, a knighthood, the Ampere Prize, the Rutherford Medal, the Sir Peter Blake Leadership Medal, and KiwiBank New Zealander of the year.
Paul was open about himself too–about his illness and his beliefs. He courageously told the world about his battle with cancer, while continuing to work hard to promote a better New Zealand, particularly through his enthusiastic support of Zealandia and for the Transit of Venus project, a dialogue with young people about the role of science and scholarship in the future of New Zealand. What could be a more fitting memorial to Paul?
Paul was special to all New Zealanders, particularly of course to his colleagues and friends. His passion and integrity made his contribution to a more innovative New Zealand incomparable. He was extraordinarily comforted by the warmth of his family as his illness progressed. The entire scientific community thanks his family for allowing Paul to give so much.
Sir Peter Gluckman
KNZM FMedSci FRSNZ FRS
Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister