Reflections on Beatrice and Jonathan Wittenberg

Abstract

Our relationship as friends and colleagues began when we met at a Gordon conference in 1994. It marked the beginning of animated, challenging and respectful scientific discussions that have greatly benefited my development as a scientist. The work sessions in our respective laboratories, often very intensive, have also been privileged moments for me and my graduate students. Jonathan, your unique ability to gather and make people work together, and Beatrice, your talent to get people organised, focused and efficient, together synergistically created the energy, direction and momentum needed to launch the truncated haemoglobin field. Thanks to both of you for having communicated to me your passion for the fascinating world of globins. Thanks also for having introduced me to Martino Bolognesi, Joel Friedman, Jack Peisach and Denis Rousseau from whom I have learned much about the biophysics of globins. Jonathan and Beatrice you have been wonderful teachers.