Historic library reveals portraits of scholars

A new collection of portraits highlighting prominent innovators at Oxford University has been revealed. The series, titled Catalysts, is a collaboration between the Bodleian Libraries and the British Journal of Photography, and will see 19 images permanently displayed at the Weston Library.

The portraits feature figures such as Sir Adrian Hill, director of the Jenner Institute, recognized for his work on malaria vaccines and the OxfordAstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, and Professor Krina Zondervan, whose studies on endometriosis have influenced treatments in women's reproductive health.

Bodley's Librarian Richard Ovenden emphasized that the collection illustrates the "value and diversity of Oxford's research and the tireless work of the university community." Other subjects include Professor Rajesh Thakker in Somerville College Library, and Dr Anne Makena and Professor Kevin Marsh in the Clarendon Building.

The photographers behind the portraits are Alys Tomlinson, Francis Augusto, and Leia Morrison. The series also showcases:

• Professor Shadreck Chirikure, expert in archaeological science
• Professor Sir Peter Horby, director of the Pandemic Sciences Institute
• Dr Anne Makena and Professor Kevin Marsh, co-directors of the Africa Oxford Initiative
• Alexis McGivern and Clarissa Salmon from Global Youth Climate Training, mentors to over 4,500 young climate activists across 177 countries
• REACH, a research group focused on improving water security in Africa and Asia
• Professor Rachel Upthegrove, whose research on psychosis has shaped early intervention services for child mental health
• The Garden, Library, and Museum team, creators of inclusive programs for adults with learning disabilities in the universitys cultural spaces

Richard Ovenden expressed pride in presenting the collection, saying: "The individuals and groups captured in these portraits are true catalysts their work drives progress across science, culture, and education, influencing both Oxford and the wider world. We aim to ensure the Bodleian Libraries collections reflect the community behind them, inspiring future researchers, activists, and changemakers."

Notable images include a diptych of Professor Shadreck Chirikure featuring iron production remnants from Togo, and Professor Krina Zondervan photographed at St Edmund Hall alongside an Aphrodite exhibit from the Ashmolean Museum. Photographer Alys Tomlinson remarked on the project, stating that working with such brilliant and approachable minds was an exciting experience.

The initiative was supported by a 40,000 donation from the Guy and Elinor Meynell Trust. Professor Sir Peter Horby was photographed outside the Big Data Institute as part of the series.

Author: Noah Whitman