A message from Jim Malley, UV Solutions editor-in-chief
The International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA) family lost one of its founders and true inspirations on October 21, 2025. Dr. James R. Bolton truly embodied all the qualities and attributes of a member of “the greatest generation any society has ever produced.” Professor Bolton was a true mentor to so many of us in UV and advanced oxidation technology. More importantly, he was a loyal friend and a tremendous source of spirit to us all, as well as a personal example of the strength of character and toughness that everyone needs to persevere and succeed despite life’s difficult challenges.
One cannot think of Professor James R. Bolton, Ph.D., without thinking of his dedication to his profession, his love of family and his love of ethics and precise nomenclature. He also was an accomplished flutist, as well as a great cook (since he believed it was “just all chemistry”). He loved teaching and, even during his stay at the hospice, he loved discussing science with the staff and volunteers there. All who knew him were beneficiaries of his kindness, wit, curiosity and generosity of spirit.
Dr. James R. Bolton was born on June 24, 1937, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, and passed away peacefully in Edmonton, Alberta. He was a distinguished scholar, earning his B.A. and M.Sc. degrees in Chemistry from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. He furthered his academic pursuits at the esteemed University of Cambridge in the UK, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry.
Dr. Bolton advised on ultraviolet (UV) applications for over 40 years. He was a Professor of Chemistry and a principal member of the Photochemistry Unit in the Department of Chemistry at Western University (UWO) in London, Ontario, from 1970 to 1996, when he retired as an Emeritus Professor of Chemistry. He published over 180 papers concerning photochemistry, solar energy and UV applications. In 1999, he established Bolton Photosciences, Inc.
His groundbreaking collaborative research with microbiologists and his insights into delivering precise UV fluence in 1997/1998 unveiled the remarkable efficacy of UV light for inactivating protozoan oocysts of Cryptosporidium, which are highly resistant to conventional drinking water chlorination practices. This pivotal discovery paved the way for the global implementation of UV disinfection in drinking water plants, significantly enhancing public health and safety.
Dr. Bolton was the first president of the newly formed Canadian Society of Chemistry (a constituent society of the Chemical Institute of Canada – CIC) and was a Fellow of the CIC. He co-founded the Solar Energy Society of Canada and served as its president.
Dr. Bolton’s leadership and vision were instrumental in the establishment of the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA) in 1999, where he served as the founding executive director and the founding editor-in-chief of IUVA News. His contributions to the field of ultraviolet technologies continue to shape the industry. In 2013, IUVA honored Dr. Bolton with the IUVA Lifetime Achievement award. A scholarship in his honor continues to provide support to students engaged in UV research.
In memory of Dr. Bolton, please consider a donation to Parkinson Canada or Pilgrims Hospice Society.