Graham Atwell - A life Shaped by Science
When Saint Kentigern entered its second year, Graham Atwell, student number 138, joined the College and soon discovered a deep interest in science that would guide his future. Encouraged by inspirational teachers Freddy Orange and Jack Paine, his curiosity found direction and set the foundation for a lifelong career in science.
After completing an MSc degree at the University of Auckland, becoming the first Saint Kentigern student to do so, Graham joined the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre in 1963. There, he embarked on a career as a synthetic organic chemist, working with renowned scientist Bruce Cain. Over nearly five decades, Graham made significant contributions in the development of a number of different types of drugs for cancer therapy and is the co-inventor of a clinically useful anti-leukaemic drug.
Sport was also an important part of his life. A naturally gifted sportsman he played cricket and hockey for the College. He later had the distinction becoming the first national sports representative from the College, playing hockey for New Zealand in 1967 and 1968.
Graham is enjoying retirement, with life enriched by classical music and travel with his wife, Sally. He remains deeply interested in science and sums it up simply: “Every day, science is adding to our understanding of the natural world.”
The connection to Saint Kentigern endures through his son Mark, and four grandchildren — James, Hayden, Mitchell and Stephanie — extending the family story across three generations.
