McMaster University’s flags are lowered today in memory of William (Willie) Leigh, who died on Feb. 4, 2024.

 Leigh joined McMaster in 1983 as an assistant professor of chemistry, with an NSERC University Research Fellowship. He spent a scientifically creative and service-oriented career here for nearly 40 years, before retiring in 2020.

In his time at McMaster, he supervised 16 PhD. students, 11 MSc. students, 9 postdoctoral fellows and scores of undergraduate students. He served twice as chair of the department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, initially from 1999 to 2004, then again from 2012 to 2017, leading with tenacity, vision and determination.

He was a generous mentor and colleague, with an infectious laugh, sharp insights and a zest for life.

Click here for a fond tribute to Prof. Leigh from the Faculty of Science.