Hugh Allen Oliver Hill. 23 May 1937 — 30 July 2021

Abstract

Allen Hill was one of the pioneers who established bioinorganic chemistry as an academic discipline. His transition from early research in organic chemistry to the biocoordination chemistry of metals led to the invention of the glucose electrode, which provided for the first time an electronic (amperometric) determination of glucose levels in blood. He guided its commercialization and subsequent use by millions of diabetics worldwide. He and his co-workers made crucial discoveries of how small molecules, especially ferrocene derivatives, can mediate electron transfer from enzymes such as glucose oxidase to electrode surfaces. He used scanning probe microscopy to reveal molecular interactions between proteins and electrode surfaces, and even resolve bound metals at near-atomic resolution. His studies of the biological redox properties and interactions of metals involved not only electrochemical methods, but also nuclear magnetic resonance, electron paramagnetic resonance and Mössbauer spectroscopies. He enjoyed the power of creativity and discovery, and was an exceptional mentor for early career researchers, with an ability to think broadly across the sciences and medicine. He gave devoted service to his college and the University of Oxford, was highly respected internationally and valued greatly the support and encouragement of his own family.