Voices of Science

Richard West (1926-) is a Quaternary scientist whose research encompasses both geology and botany. Following military service in India during World War Two he returned to England to study at the University of Cambridge, where he remained throughout his career. His PhD research was the foundation for his classic study of the stratigraphy and palynology of the Middle Pleistocene interglaciallake deposits at Hoxne, Suffolk. Subsequent research drew on his ability to interpret both the biological and geological aspects of Quaternary deposits. Through independent work and multidisciplinary collaborations, he has made substantial contributions to the development of the biostratigraphic framework of the British Pleistocene. In retirement he continues his research, carrying out fieldwork in Norfolk.