Dr Chris Bell

Wednesday, 23 June 2010

Dr Chris Bell

The University of Reading is very sad to announce the death of one of its young researchers in NCAS-Climate and the Department of Meteorology.

On his way home after an evening out with friends in Reading on Friday 18 June Chris was knocked down by a car.  He was rushed to the Royal Berkshire hospital but tragically did not regain consciousness and died early on Sunday morning.  Chris's family were able to reach Reading from Northern Ireland to be with him before he died.

At 28, Chris was already a very well respected researcher and a valued member of both NCAS-Climate and the Department of Meteorology. He completed his PhD studies in June 2009, which involved computer modelling to examine how processes that occur high up in the ozone layer might influence future climate change. Since then, he had remained in Reading as a postdoctoral researcher studying the influence of changes in the sun's output on our climate.

He already had several journal publications and had become known and well respected by his scientific peers internationally. His enthusiasm for his science studies was infectious and it was obvious to everyone that he was on his way to a very successful and productive research career.   

Chris had many many friends in the Department and throughout the wider University.  He was known as a ‘bright spark' with a quick and ready wit and irrepressible enthusiasm who could cheer up the dullest day (or meeting!).  His last evening was spent watching the football with friends, cracking jokes and enjoying himself, which is hopefully a small comfort to his parents, Anne and Gabriel, and his brothers Eamonn, Tim and Philip. 

He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.