The Burton Lectures were established in the 1970s in honour of Professor Harold Burton, and many distinguished academics have participated over the years.
Professor Burton was Head of the King's College London's Department of Chemistry from 1947 until his death in 1966. The research which he directed quickly built up the reputation of the Department of Chemistry. He planned for the introduction of the specialist courses in Chemistry, which started in October 1966, and also for a great expansion in teaching and research.
The Harold Burton Fund was established for the promotion of Chemistry in the College, which included an annual lecture.
Previous speakers:
2023 Professor Anthony Peter Davis
2022 Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian F.R.S F.Med.Sci
2021 Professor James H Naismith, F.R.S. FRSE FMedSci
2019 Professor Andrew Orr-Ewing, F.R.S.
2018 Professor Sabine L. Flitsch
2017 Professor Jason W. Chin, F.Med.Sci.
2016 Professor Christopher A Hunter, F.R.S.