Superconductor physicist receives Rutherford Medal for Science and Technology
The Royal Society's highest honour - the 2002 Rutherford Medal for Science and Technology - was presented tonight to
Professor Jeffery Tallon, who is internationally known for his development of superconductors. The Medal was presented
by the Minister of Research, Science and Technology, Hon Pete Hodgson, on the eve of an international conference at Te
Papa, which brings together many of New Zealand's top scientists ( https://www.rsnz.org/secure/events/academy2002.php)
Professor Tallon is a leading international researcher in high-temperature superconductors (HTS). These materials become
perfect conductors when cooled below a critical temperature and are now appearing in several revolutionary technologies.
The Minister said, "Jeff is remarkable not only for his deep understanding of superconductors, but for his ability to
take ideas beyond the lab to commercial development. This has demanded special qualities of vision and leadership. The
science of superconductors requires knowledge as well as practical ability in chemistry, physics, and engineering
science. Jeff's enthusiasm, energy and achievements mark him out as an outstanding New Zealand scientist." Professor
Tallon has worked at Industrial Research Limited in Lower Hutt since 1967. He has initiated several industrial
partnerships to implement HTS technology, culminating in March 1997 with the commissioning of a world-first HTS
accelerator magnet.
Professor Tallon, with colleagues, has discovered and patented many novel HTS superconductors, including the only
material currently being developed for cables, magnets, motors and transformers.
A former James Cook Research Fellow and Deputy Chair of the Marsden (Research) Fund, Professor Tallon has won many
awards for his ground-breaking research. His personal enthusiasm for the discipline of physics, and his passion for
issues of science and society, are communicated widely through speaking and demonstrating to schools, service
organisations, professional societies and the wider community.
Previous winners of the Rutherford Medal include "Prof (John) Walker" who is well-known for his vegetable gardening tips
on the Maggie Barry Show (1999); Nobel Laureate, Professor Alan MacDiarmid (2000); and paediatrician, Professor Peter
Gluckman (2001).