A Members Debate at Holyrood had Brian Whittle harking back to his first career as an industrial chemist.
The South Scotland MSP, who studied chemistry at college and university and had a brief career working at ICI in Ardeer before becoming a professional athlete, showed his knowledge and passion for science during a debate marking the International Year of the Periodic Table.
During an energetic speech, Brian spoke about the chemical reactions that took place at the origins of the universe before taking his fellow MSPs inside a star to discover how naturally occurring elements are created. Brian went on to speak about the need to make chemistry come alive for students in the classroom through demonstrations of chemical reactions and giving real life examples of how much chemistry and other scientific subjects.
Brian Whittle said “It was great to be able to have the chance to talk about the value of chemistry in the chamber. My career as an athlete was one I wouldn’t trade for anything, but I’ve always had a fascination for Chemistry. At a time when there’s a real need for more children and young people to consider a career in science and engineering, it’s never been more important that we take every opportunity to inspire school pupils and make these subjects come alive”
