This scientist’s side hustle is creating crosswords for The New York Times
August 25, 2025
Dean by day, cruciverbalist by night, Dr. Mark MacLachlan discusses the science behind the art of his hobby as a crossword creator for The New York Times and more.
If you’re feeling unaccomplished, stop reading. It’s only going to get worse.
In his day-to-day life, Dr. Mark MacLachlan is a professor of chemistry researching something called ‘supramolecular materials’ (don’t ask) and dean of science at the University of British Columbia. His days are filled with unpronounceable chemicals and long meetings.
For the average reader, relaxing after work might involve scrolling through Instagram, reading a book, or watching some junk television.
Dean MacLachlan creates crosswords. For The New York Times, LA Times, and The Wall Street Journal, no less. And no, he doesn’t watch Love Island.
- Teaching and Learning
- Media release
