After excelling in Maths and Science at School, John started his academic career in Sheffield. In 1958 he graduated with a degree in Metallurgy and was also awarded the Mappin Medal (for greatest Distinction shown by candidates reading for the degree). His career after graduating started with the British Steel Casting Research Association but he was soon attracted back to the University of Sheffield where he did his PhD with Professor Arthur Quarrell. Following on from his PhD he started his academic career as a lecturer (reaching senior lecturer) in the Department. John was part of the Department from October ‘64 to October ‘97.
As well as being a keen lecturer where he taught and inspired many students, John was especially proud of his research. One of his published papers was Miller, Stephenson and Beech, 1973. It described apparatus that allowed a 300 micron-thick aluminium alloy to be melted and solidified at a controlled rate. Variations in x-ray absorption indicated the alloy’s composition. He went on to advise Rolls-Royce on the production of turbine blades for jet engines.
He continued working into his 60s, seeing success in these last years of his career with consultancy, further research and a teaching company he directed - the Integrated Graduate Development Scheme – IGDS.