The University of Canterbury is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Ernest, Lord Rutherford receiving the Nobel Prize for Chemistry for his investigations into the disintegration of the elements and the chemistry of radioactive substances.
Canterbury is a particular focal point for the international centenary celebrations given Rutherford (1871-1937) is UC’s most distinguished graduate. He attended the University, which at the time was known as Canterbury College, from 1890 until 1894. He obtained three degrees: BA, MA with double first class honours in mathematics and physics, and a BSc. He was later granted a DSc and Canterbury College’s first DSc (honorary).
UC is marking the centenary with the following events:
Monday 8 December: Science Day – an open day for local intermediate school pupils.
Wednesday 10 December: Inaugural College of Science Rutherford Lecture presented by Nobel Laureate (Chemistry) Professor Robert Grubbs. The lecture will be held at the Great Hall. Arts Centre of Christchurch, beginning at 6pm.
Friday 12 December: Scholars in Science Competition – the final round of a College of Science event which will give Year 13 students the opportunity to win a full scholarship to study science for three years at the University of Canterbury.
Wednesday 17 and Friday 19 December: Rutherford will be remembered at the University's graduation ceremonies.
News and Features
Rutherford’s path to
the Nobel Prize (PDF, 176KB)
December 2008 marks 100 years since Canterbury alumnus Ernest Rutherford received his Nobel Prize, a first for a person educated in New Zealand.
Dr John Campbell looks back at the early life of one of New Zealand's most famous sons.
Young writers do Rutherford proud
To mark the 100th anniversary of Canterbury alumnus Ernest, Lord Rutherford receiving his Nobel Prize, the University of Canterbury has awarded a number of prizes in his name to the bright young minds of a new generation.
Rutherford’s descendant celebrates UC connection
The great-great-grandson of Ernest Rutherford, “father of the atom” and the University of Canterbury's most distinguished graduate, has followed in his forebear’s footsteps by graduating from the University.