Geoff Hunter, Dean of Science and Engineering died at the weekend after a short illness at the age of 58. Vice Principal Professor David Swinfen said: "Geoff Hunter made an enormous contribution to the work and life of the University over many years. As Head of Chemistry and latterly as Dean of Science and Engineering, his qualities of good sense and firm leadership earned widespread respect, as did the quite extraordinary courage with which he faced his last illness. Everyone who knew him, including many generations of grateful students, now feels a profound sense of loss."
Geoff Hunter joined the University of Dundee in 1969 as a lecturer in inorganic chemistry. He took a BSc at the University of Sheffield and PhD at the University of Newcastle before undertaking post doc research at Simon Fraser University in Canada. He was then appointed scientific officer for the UK atomic energy authority.
Geoff was promoted to senior lecturer in 1988, Head of the Department of Chemistry in 1990 and was appointed to a personal chair in chemistry in 1993. He was made Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering in 1999.
Dr Martyn Ward, Associate Dean and Graeme Findlay, former faculty secretary paid tribute to their colleague: "During his period of office Geoff managed the Faculty with characteristic even-handedness and fairness throughout a period of significant structural reorganisation. According to Geoff's own words, being even-handed meant that he pleased no one, but in reality, the stability and many successes of the Faculty over a period of financial uncertainty depended on that approach.
Despite the many demands associated with the role of Dean, Geoff maintained a full teaching load and continued to actively pursue his research interests. He was fully committed to a balanced portfolio of high quality teaching and research within the Faculty.
All who interacted with Geoff were struck by his robust, sometimes black, sense of humour which was maintained throughout his illness. He was a genuine, decent and thoroughly likeable man. It was a privilege to have known and worked with him."
Professor Hunter who lived in Wormit Fife, is survived by his wife Jacqueline and daughter Gillian.
Funeral arrangements will be posted here as soon as they are available.
In memory of Geoff Hunter the University is launching a Geoff Hunter Memorial Fund to which all friends, colleagues, students and staff are welcome to contribute.
Contributions should be sent to the Finance Office marked Geoff Hunter Memorial Fund. Cheques should be made payable to University of Dundee.
Please contact Rayne Eaton on ex 5185 if you would like to gift aid your donation.