Mark MacLachlan, a renowned chemistry professor and Dean of Science at the University of British Columbia, has a fascinating hobby that sets him apart. In his spare moments outside of academia, he delves into the world of creating crossword puzzles, a pursuit that began as a simple curiosity.
MacLachlan shared in an interview with CityNews, “This is what I do in my downtime, on evenings and weekends when I can steal 15 or 20 minutes for relaxation.” His journey into the realm of crossword puzzles started back in 1999 when he discovered his passion for solving them. Intrigued by the puzzle-making process, he decided to try his hand at creating them himself, eventually learning that anyone can submit a crossword puzzle to publications like the New York Times.
Although faced with initial rejections, MacLachlan’s persistence paid off in 2016 when his first puzzle was published in the Los Angeles Times, a moment he cherishes by displaying the framed puzzle in his office. He humorously remarked, “I put in more effort for that one than anything else on my wall.”
Over the years, MacLachlan has crafted 75 intricate puzzles for esteemed publications such as the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, investing over 80 hours in the meticulous design process. He explained his creative approach, starting with a thematic idea inspired by everyday phrases or observations, filling the grid with words, and ensuring accessibility for solvers without the need for a crossword dictionary.
Despite his demanding academic responsibilities, MacLachlan remains dedicated to his crossword puzzle passion, looking forward to indulging in more puzzle-making during breaks from his teaching duties. As he gears up for the upcoming school year, he plans to continue honing his craft and challenging puzzle enthusiasts with his innovative creations.