Learning from and working alongside with Jon changes one forever. I met Jon 10 years ago, when I first arrived in London. I was doing an MSc at the time and after his first lecture it was immediately apparent to me that this was the person I wanted to learn from the most. I pursued that. He was just inspirational. I was lucky to stay next to Jon for the following 6 years, doing my PhD, and then a post-doc. It was truly a privilege. It changed my way of thinking forever. He was an exceptional scientist and an exceptional man. He was my scientific mentor and an important figure in my life.
What I always found admirable about Jon was that besides his unique intellectual abilities, he was always humble and down to earth. He was a truly supportive person and always fair to everyone. I knew I could always go to him for advice, and I did so often, even years after I left his lab.
I remember: Trying to get some of Jon’s time and as a result jumping in the elevator and having 1 minute meetings while we went from the ground floor to the 3rd floor; his amazing dedication to making corrections to my PhD draft; his kindness and support when life became difficult; the heated debates; the invaluable advice; his use of semi-colons! ; the absolute feeling of respect and admiration.
I still can’t believe he is not with us anymore. I will miss him tremendously, but I will carry him and everything he taught me about life in memory forever.
