Coronavirus: Prof Julian Perry Robinson dies of Covid-19

University of Sussex academic Professor Julian Perry Robinson died at the age of 78 last Wednesday.

He had served the university since 1971 and was known as the David Attenborough of chemical and biological weapons.

From the 1960s onwards he worked with the United Nations and the World Health Organisation to prevent chemical and biological warfare during the tension of the Cold War.

He was also a central figure in the Pugwash research group, which brought together public figures across the world to reduce the risk of armed conflict.

In 2013 Prof Robinson’s colleagues attempted to nominate him for a Nobel Peace Prize alongside research partner Professor Matthew Meselson.

But the humble professor said the “flattering proposal” would be an “awful distraction” from his work.

Prof Robinson discouraged colleagues from nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Photo: ProtoplasmaKid / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA 4.0

Friends and students of Prof Robinson lined up to pay tribute online.

“It is difficult to imagine scholarship on chemical and biological weapons without Julian,” friend Reid Kirby wrote on a memorial page.

“He was a constant in a celestial body of shooting stars.

“I first met Julian in March 2006. He did everything to make me feel welcome.

“Having only had a week to visit, Julian lent me his badge to work over the weekend – something that was very much against the rules.”

Friend Bob Mikulak said Prof Robinson had a “friendly personality and impish smile”.

“His deep commitment to the goal of eliminating the threat from chemical and biological weapons has helped inspire me and many others,” he said.

Chemical and biological warfare played a sizable role in the Vietnam War. Photo: US National Archives and Records Administration

Despite his modesty, Prof Robinson was not afraid to make waves when required.

In 1981 global tensions came to a head when the USA accused the Soviet Union of supplying toxic fungus to the Vietnamese government for use against anti-communist rebels.

Reports described refugees being doused with a sticky yellow liquid from above.

But Prof Robinson and Prof Meselson debunked the claims, revealing the “yellow rain” was actually mass defecation of pollen by digested bees.

Of course, the trailblazing professor had other interests.

He loved classic cars, especially his Morgan, and could often be seen in University of Sussex toilets each morning removing oil and grease from his hands.

Prof Robinson is survived by wife Mary and his children.

• The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund