We were delighted to welcome back Old Viking Arthur Burghes (74E) Affiliated Professor, Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Professor, Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology at Ohio State University and his wife Susan Burghes on Friday, September 12. They gave an inspiring talk to a group of Shiplake's aspiring scientists about their lives and careers.

Professor Burghes, began by sharing how his time at Shiplake was a pivotal moment in his life. He spoke candidly about the challenges of being diagnosed with dyslexia at a time when little was known about it, but credits a Shiplake teacher for helping him discover his talent for mathematics, which set him on a path toward science.

He then delved into his life's work in genetics, explaining how he studies neuromuscular disorders at a molecular level. Professor Burghes shared his research and methodology for unravelling the molecular biology of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which sparked a Q&A session with a group of inquisitive students and teachers.

Meanwhile, Susan Burghes, who holds a PhD in Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, gave a separate talk to Shiplake's female scientists. She spoke about her career and what it has meant to be a woman in science for the past 50 years.

After the talks, Professor Burghes was recognised as an Honorary Old Viking of the Year for his significant contributions to science. Headmaster Tyrone Howe presented the award to him in one of the college's new science labs, a fitting moment that brought his journey full circle.

A keen sportsman during his time at Shiplake, playing for the First XV Rugby team and First VIII crew, Professor Burghes stayed to watch a First XI match and the Festival of Sport tournaments on Saturday. It was a pleasure to host Arthur and Susan, and we hope to see them again soon.