After completing his PhD in Chemical Kinetics, Peter Stockwell began his career at the Laboratory of the Government Chemist as research director and later joined Plasma Therm Ltd. In 1983 he set up PS Analytical which saw the introduction of the worlds first fully automated mercury analyser in 1986. PSA has gained a reputation as a world leader in environmental analysis. Author of over 120 papers and 4 books and a world authority on automation, he sits on BSI, CEN and ISO committees relating to the development of standards for mercury, arsenic, antimony and selenium.