Michael Faraday, initially a bookbinder with an interest in science, was appointed as Davy's laboratory assistant at the Royal Institution. Davy recognized Faraday's potential but also seemed to exhibit a mixture of encouragement and professional jealousy.

Faraday accompanied Davy and his wife on their extensive continental tour. This provided Faraday with invaluable experience and exposure to leading European scientists. The tour was also challenging for Faraday, who was treated more like a servant than a scientific colleague by Jane Davy.

Under Davy's guidance, Faraday gradually developed his own research skills and began to make independent contributions to science. He worked on various projects at the Royal Institution, gaining expertise in chemistry and physics.

As Faraday's scientific reputation grew, tensions arose between him and Davy. Davy allegedly attempted to hinder Faraday's progress, possibly due to jealousy over Faraday's growing recognition. The election of Faraday into the Royal Society was reportedly actively opposed by Davy, which contributed to a rift between them.

Humphry Davy's death marked the end of his complex relationship with Faraday. Despite the tensions and rivalry, Faraday acknowledged Davy's influence on his career and his contributions to science.