Carol Robinson writes:

"Mass spectrometry, long the tool of the analytical chemist, can be considered as a very sophisticated balance. In this lecture I will chart the history of this development, from the earliest mass spectrometers designed in Cambridge to measure rare gases, through to their modern-day counterparts used in our lab to study membrane-embedded motors.  In keeping with Alex’s enthusiasm for life and science I will intertwine this scientific story with my personal journey from lab technician to professor."