In Memory of Dr Robin Dykstra
The University is mourning the loss of one of its own with the recent passing of Dr Robin Dykstra.
Robin had been with Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington since 2008, having joined us from Massey University. He was instrumental in helping the Faculty of Engineering shape and deliver their Electronics and Computer Systems Engineering major, and then later, their Electrical and Electronics Engineering major. He was also a frequent collaborator with staff in the Faculty of Science, particularly colleagues in the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, with whom he undertook numerous research collaborations.
Robin was a quintessential engineer, equally at home in industry or academia. He was seconded to take on a term as the Chief Technical Officer of a company called Magritek—commercialising NMR devices that he had developed with the late Sir Paul Callaghan. Not content with just this, Robin also founded several start-ups such as Science Heaven, inMR, and Resonint. He brought back all this experience and knowledge to his students. He passionately cared about providing them with an education that was world-class, relevant, and would lead them to successful futures. It was heart-warming hearing several of them relate their appreciation to Robin at his funeral.
As a colleague, Robin was friendly, helpful, and collegial. We fondly remember his cheeky grin and his ability to find the bright side and the humour in any situation. We were in awe of the depth and breadth of his technical expertise.
Robin’s contributions to NMR and MRI have left the world in a better place, and thousands of students now have successful careers due in large part to having Robin as their lecturer or supervisor. Robin, you are very sadly missed by all of us at Victoria University of Wellington who had the privilege of knowing you. Rest in Peace.