Professor Larkins has made significant contributions to theoretical chemical physics with particular emphasis on the theoretical interpretation of experimental results. He has elegantly used electron impact and synchrotron radiation as the excitation sources for subsequent spectroscopic studies. His group has developed a unique approach to the use of semiemperical wavefunctions which has been extremely effective for interpreting normal molecular auger spectra and for highlighting when other models are inadequate. His significant contribution was recognised by the award of the Applied Research Medal (RACI) and the Baragwarath Award (1992).