Dr Macpherson's academic education was centred on Manchester University from 1948 to 1955, where B Sc, M Sc, and Ph D degrees in physics were awarded.

His later career in industry included sixteen years with Roll- Royce Ltd, on engineering and research matters related to aerospace propulsion, including the RB 211 project in 1967/ 71, followed by twenty one years with the Ford Motor Company in the UK and in the USA on engineering research, development and production of power plants for vehicles, directing world-wide studies into advanced technologies.

Following early retirement in 1992, the next six years were involved in activities in the National Health Service as the Chairman of the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital Trust at the formation and start-up of this endeavour. Joining in efforts to raise the quality of activity on Research in the NHS within the UK was of particular interest.

Dr Macpherson continues to be involved in environmental and related issues challenging the continuing research and development in the automotive industry to bring forward critical advances in fuel consumption and emissions in the years ahead. His involvement with the Perry Foundation flows from his career long interest in research matters and also in helping young participants in emerging technologies to make personal progress and develop their early career opportunities.