Alumni from the University were among those recognised in the New Year’s Honours list 2017 for outstanding contributions in their fields of work.

As the Director of the British Antarctic Survey, Professor Jane Francis (BSc Geology, 1978; PhD, 1982) has already broken new ground in the field of polar science. Now she can add the honour of being appointed Dame Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (DCMG) to her list of achievements.

Dame Jane was recognised for her outstanding work in polar science and diplomacy. Commenting on the award, she said:

This award comes as a surprise and an honour. It has been a pleasure to have worked together with so many friends from polar nations around the world to ensure that Antarctica remains a continent dedicated to peace and science – science that matters to everyone on planet Earth.

Professor Andrew George (PhD, 1987) was appointed Member of the Order British Empire (MBE) in the New Year’s Honours for services to research participants and ethical governance of clinical research.

Andrew currently chairs the National Research Ethics Advisors’ Panel and is Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Brunel University London. On receiving the award, he said:

I am delighted to receive this unexpected honour.  It is particularly pleasing as it vicariously acknowledges the work done by many volunteers on NHS research ethics committees around the country that work hard to ensure that ethical clinical research can take place, while ensuring that the welfare and rights of those that take part in the research are protected.

Dr Dave Watson (PhD, 1986) was appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year’s Honours for services to science and engineering research. Dave is currently Director of IBM Research in the UK.