“I have always thought that it’s not so much that I am ‘out’ about being gay, but more that I have never had any desire to pretend otherwise.”

Tom Welton is an openly gay scientist and the 1^st professor of sustainable chemistry. Welton first became interested in chemistry during his A-level courses and credits his encouraging teacher. Welton then pursued a B.S. (1985) and Ph.D. (1990) in chemistry at the University of Sussex. Sussex provided a safe  and positive environment for the LGBTQ+ community which Welton regards highly as a positive influence throughout his education. Welton continues this sentiment as a professor at Imperial College London and is a strong advocate for DEI and the LGBTQ+ community. Welton’s research investigates the fundamental properties of ionic liquids and their application in the clean synthesis of biomass-derived polymers. During his career, Welton was awarded the Athena SWAN Gold Award and was recognized as an officer of the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to diversity in education.