102-year-old scientist refuses to retire
Most of us would be grateful simply to reach the age of 100, let alone still have the energy and passion to continue working, but that’s exactly how it is for Dr David William Goodall. The 102-year-old ecologist, who has three PhDs and an Order of Australia, has taken a stand after recently being asked to take a step back from his work at Perth’s Edith Cowan University.
Andrew Woodward, Dean of the university’s School of Sciences, told ABC News the decision was made after concerns about Dr Goodall’s health and safety were brought up by faculty members. “This is not a decision we've taken lightly, this is something that has been considered over a period of time,” he said. “We are now of the opinion where the situation is at a point where we really do need to make this change in David's best interest and our own.”
But this doesn’t sit well with Dr Goodall and his family. “I [told the university] it would be the worst thing you could possibly do, I don't know if he would survive it,” his daughter Karen said. “After everything he has contributed, for them to do that, I'm appalled.”
However, the university claims they’re not trying to oust the decorated scientist, who travels 90 minutes to work at least four times a week, only relocate him to a home office for the sake of his wellbeing. Woodward also added that the university would be happy to organise transportation on the days Dr Goodall had to visit the campus.
Dr Goodall reluctantly agreed, despite his one-bedroom apartment not having enough room for a home office. “I would be glad if they did reconsider it,” he said. “But I don't feel that I'm in a position to press it.”
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Image: Charlotte Hamlyn / ABC News
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