Where are they now
Dr Alf Uhlherr (OH 1983) graduated from Monash University with a Science degree and a PhD in Physical Chemistry. He then completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Cambridge before returning to Australia and spending the next 23 years working at CSIRO across more than 30 different sites.
Alf has always had a passion for science, perhaps partly influenced by his father who was a lecturer in Chemical Engineering at Monash University. He also credits his science and maths teachers at Haileybury for his love of science, including Mr Gilson, Mr Neil, Mr Holper, Mr Peverell, Mr Masters, Mr Brazier, Mr Hosking, Mr Rebbechi, Mr Jessup and Mr Barnes.
Another subject that sparked Alf’s interest at Haileybury was Computer Studies with Mr Davenport. The enthusiasm shared by teacher and student led Alf to take up computing as a home hobby.
He combined his love of chemistry and computers to gain his first role at CSIRO as a Computational Chemist where he analysed and improved materials using very large computer calculations. Alf then took on a role managing CSIRO’s scientific computing services and facilities — the largest in the southern hemisphere.
Alf is now retired and enjoys volunteer work and indulging in travel, photography, wild life, nature, reading, and collecting and dealing in old non-fiction books. He has a collection of over 5,000 books with a large number of cricket and motoring books.
Alf’s favourite travel destinations so far have been Yosemite National Park in the USA, and New Zealand and he is eager to travel more with his partner, May, when she retires shortly.
He says he embraces Monash University’s motto, Ancora Imparo, which means ‘I am still learning’.
Going to Haileybury created many opportunities for Alf and he is now generously supporting a six-year Haileybury Foundation Scholarship, commencing this year, which will change a life forever.
Thank you, Alf, for staying connected and for giving back to our community!
