In Memoriam: Peter Turner

We are very sad to announce the death of Peter Turner, Lecturer in Electronic and Computer Engineering. Peter had worked at Brunel since 1989 and was Director of Undergraduate Studies and Placement Tutor.

As a mark of respect, the University flag will also fly at half mast on Wednesday.

Peter Turner joined the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering at Brunel in 1989, having completed his PhD at Imperial College and lectured at the University of Manchester. Peter joined the department’s Control Centre and was responsible for some innovative research into axial robots, which led to a number of patents.

It was apparent from his very early days at Brunel that Peter was first and foremost a dedicated teacher, who gained the respect of undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as his colleagues. He became very influential in the development of undergraduate teaching programmes, and created a programme of professional development for undergraduates which helped produce more competent students both for industrial placements and, more importantly, for their careers on leaving Brunel. 

Peter was Director of Undergraduate Studies where he excelled in managing academic programmes. The Industrial Placement Tutor’s role revealed a perfect match between his temperament and personal skills, and he commanded the respect of both students and the many industrialists he encountered. It is due to Peter that the School of Engineering and Design enjoys so much success in its placement programmes, which provide crucial experience for graduates.

In 2007 Peter was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer which necessitated major medical intervention over the past six years. Throughout this period of time, Peter maintained enormous optimism and enthusiasm for his duties at Brunel. The seriousness of his medical condition was not apparent to the majority of his colleagues when he was admitted to hospital before Christmas, and we all expected a successful outcome to his latest cell stem transplant. Sadly the last medical intervention was not successful and Peter died on Saturday 19 January with his family by his side. 

He leaves a wife, Jenny, and three children, Reuben, Jonah and Suzanna.

Peter was an excellent academic who always put his students first. The judgement of his peers is unequivocal - he was an outstanding member of staff and will be missed by us all.