Published:
Heriot-Watt academics, staff and students attended a glittery awards ceremony this week - to pick up prizes for their efforts in engaging with the public.
The annual Public Engagement Awards take place every year and recognises the huge role played in engaging the local community with the work of the university.
This year, the accolades were presented by Professor Richard Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor in three main categories: Impact, Partnership and Pioneer.
Dr Heidi Burdett, from the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society scooped the Impact award for her work over the last ten years in areas of climate change and its effect on coral reefs.
Meanwhile, Dr Katrin Lohan from the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences and Dr Amy Davies from the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences picked up commendations in this category.
Dr Robert Collins from The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences took the Partnership award for his MacroPhoton project which engaged school pupils. Dr Alan Gow from the School of Social Sciences received a commendation in this category.
Two academics won the Pioneer award. Dr Mark Wilkinson from The School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences for his development of a successful outreach initiative The Maths of Social Media – inspiring school children to understand maths and its relevance in modern society.
While Lindsey St Mary, PhD student in The School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society picked up the same award for her passion for public engagement and willingness to develop it as part of her research. Dr Anna Sedda from the School of Social Sciences also received a commendation in this category.
The International Centre for Island Technology (ICIT) received a very special Year of Sea award for their passion for research into the oceans.
Find out more about the university's engagement work here.