He began his career at the age of 18 in 1944 when he joined the Army and spent time in India. On return to England, he went to Clare College, Cambridge in 1948 taking Botany and Geology at Part I. Although being tempted to take Geology for Part II, he decided to study Botany, for which he obtained First Class Honours and the Frank Smart Studentship.
He started his career at 18 in 1944 when he enlisted in the military and spent time in India. Upon returning to England, he enrolled at Clare College, Cambridge in 1948 studying Botany and Geology as Part I. Although considering Geology for Part II, he chose Botany instead, earning First Class Honours and the Frank Smart Studentship.