Shorts: From Theoretical Physics to Air Pollution - Dr. Gary Fuller's Unexpected 30-Year Journey

EnviroHealth Shorts - Season 2 Episode 1: From Theoretical Physics to Air Pollution

In this short, Dr. Gary Fuller of Imperial College London shares his career trajectory from disillusioned physicist to world-renowned air pollution researcher. What began as a two-week contract in 1993 unexpectedly blossomed into a three-decade career studying the air we breathe. Dr. Fuller reveals how abandoning theoretical physics for more practical environmental work led him to the London Air Quality Network, where his "temporary" position evolved into a lifelong mission.

Topics Covered:

• Dr. Fuller's unconventional path from theoretical physics to air pollution research
• How disillusionment with abstract models pushed him toward practical environmental science
• The serendipitous two-week contract that turned into a 30-year career
• The founding years of the London Air Quality Network (est. 1993)

Quote Highlight: "I arrived to do this for two weeks to help out when the London Air Quality Network was being created back in 1993. And here I am, what, 30 odd years later, and I'm still here."

For the full conversation exploring the deadly London smog of 1952, historical pollution levels, and pioneering measurement techniques, check out our complete episode with Dr. Fuller.

Credits:

• Hosts: Dr. Joseph M. Levermore and Dr. Steven Campbell
• Guest: Dr. Gary Fuller (Imperial College London)
• Executive Producer: Neil Japhtha
• Production: EnviroHealth Podcast

Resources:

For more information about air pollution and its health impacts, visit here.

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