Don McNaughton was born a Pom in Darlington, County Durham and emigrated with his family to Australia in 1961 at the age of 9. After attending school in Brisbane, he joined the RAAF in 1970 and trained as an Aeronautical Engineer. After 4 years of experience that he wouldn’t have missed for quids, he resigned from the air force and commenced a science degree, majoring in chemistry and then carrying out a PhD in physical chemistry, becoming a professor of molecular sciences. He carried out research with the aim of understanding interstellar chemistry and biochemical change at the micro and nano level. He is now Emeritus Professor of Molecular Sciences at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia with lots of time on his hands.
Don has maintained his interest in the air force, aircraft and 20 th Century military and social history, and has used his research skills to uncover the biographical details of a typical Bomber Command aircrew. Lucky Pommie Bastard is his first foray into writing something other than scientific papers
and book chapters.
Don is married to Elizabeth, a General Medical Practitioner, and together they have two children.
To read more about Don’s academic career please visit Monash University.
Donald McNaughton 