I met Neil in 2019 to discuss my undergraduate final-year project. Upon completion, I hoped to return to his lab for an unpaid internship. He, however, offered me a temporary job instead. This eventually led me to come back to Bulleid’s research group two years ago and become one of his students. I will always feel extremely lucky I stepped into his office in the first place.

 Recently I’ve learned that like me, many other people owe Neil the fortunate position they are at, thanks to his support at the beginning of their careers. I think he chose to give people a chance for self-development because, as a true educator, Neil didn’t prize excellence, but rather he led you to strive for improvements.

 While being very approachable, Neil managed to keep a healthy, professional screen between him and his staff. In the only real personal conversation we had, he reminded me how you need to learn that often things in life can change unexpectedly.

 These words have resonated with me for some time now, especially during the past few weeks.

 You’d think that such teachings come from experiences and that these experiences would make a person a bit weary of everything, but not Neil. He seemed excited to start his day performing experiments, and just as happy to leave the lab in the evening to tend to his personal life. Hearing about Neil’s life outside and before his lab at the funeral stressed how the world hasn’t “just” lost a mentor, but above all, a loving dad and husband, a cherished friend, and an adventurer. Therefore, my thoughts go to his family and friends at this difficult time.

Fa’ buon viaggio, Professore.