For nearly 40 years, Robert Gaddie was an outstanding figure in British clinical biochemistry, pioneering the practice and teaching of the subject and helping to establish the status of the non-medical biochemist. From 1941 to 1972 he was head of the Department of Clinical Biochemistry at the General Hospital, Birmingham and Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer in the University of Birmingham. He died in 1984 at the age of 77. With the help of a generous donation from his widow, Jean, the West Midlands Region of the Association of Clinical Biochemists established the Robert Gaddie Memorial Fund shortly after his death to perpetuate the memory of his lifetime's dedication to clinical biochemistry.

Objectives of the Charity

The Fund is dedicated to the advancement of scientific knowledge and education and to promote scientific excellence, with particular reference to clinical biochemistry in the West Midlands. To this end the Fund: Awards an annual prize for the best scientific poster, paper or presentation in the West Midlands Region. Provides funds to enable clinical biochemists to attend meetings to learn about and discuss advances in scientific medicine. Enables clinical biochemists to visit other laboratories in the UK or abroad to learn new techniques or to obtain first-hand knowledge from recognised experts. Purchases items of laboratory equipment or reagents for research purposes. Invites experts to speak at regional meetings.