Special Memorial Session for Professor Fred Eastham FRAEng, FRSE

October 21, 2025

We are deeply sorry to share that Professor Fred Eastham has passed away recently. Fred was known as the grandfather of electrical machines in the UK and was a world-leading and widely respected professor in this area. He actively mentored and advised younger generations of electrical engineers, including supervisors and students in our research group.

Fred had been a mentor to the Applied Superconductivity Laboratory since the lab was established at the University of Strathclyde in 2018. He visited the lab regularly, offering mentoring and engaging in discussions with PhD students every year. Even before becoming an official mentor in 2018, he had already provided tremendous support and advice to Professors Weijia Yuan and Min Zhang during their time at the University of Bath.

A special memorial session was organised during the IAA/NZEEE Workshop on Power Electronics in Extreme Environments on 27 October 2025. Fred had planned to join the workshop and was excited to participate in discussions and, as he often said, “learn something new.” The session was opened by Professor Weijia Yuan, who reflected on Fred’s legacy and his long-standing support for the group. Professor Xiaoze Pei then shared her reflections on Fred’s kindness and contributions, followed by a short moment of silence to honour his memory.
We send our deepest condolences to Fred’s family and friends. His wisdom, generosity, and enthusiasm will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.