Honorary Doctorate for academic's work in climate change

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L-R: Prof Paulien Herder, TU Delft Prof Mercedes Maroto-Valer, Heriot-Watt University Prof Tim van der Hagen, Rector Magnificus/President TU Delft Mr Soren Hermansen, Energiakademi Samso Prof Andy van den Dobbelsteen, TU Delft Prof Pier Siebesma, TU Delft

A Heriot-Watt professor has been recognised with an honorary doctorate for her global academic leadership in energy systems by a world-renowned university.

Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer, Assistant Principal (Research and Innovation) and Director of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS), received her Honorary Doctorate from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands during a recent ceremony that celebrated the 177th Anniversary of the institution.

The Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is the largest technical university in the Netherlands and considered one of the world's best institutions of learning for engineering and technology.

Mercedes exemplifies all the wonderful and important work that goes on here at Heriot-Watt University.

Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Heriot-Watt University

'Climate Action' was this year's theme of the TU Delft Dies Natalis and around 400 people attended the celebration. Several colleagues and students from Heriot-Watt University also attended the event to celebrate this important occasion.

Professor Maroto-Valer was selected for the honour by a distinguished panel of academics for her outstanding work in low carbon energy systems, carbon capture and storage, and solar fuels.  This research area is a key component of TU Delft's e-Refinery programme, which aims to produce sustainable, clean fuels for the future.

Professor Maroto-Valer, said: “I'm deeply humbled and grateful for receiving this honorary doctorate by TU Delft, a world leading engineering institution solving global challenges.  This recognition is a testament to the dedication and achievements of the RCCS team at Heriot-Watt University.  The inspiration, support, encouragement and guidance of colleagues, friends and family have made this possible.”

Adding his congratulation is Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Heriot-Watt University.

He said: “Mercedes exemplifies all the wonderful and important work that goes on here at Heriot-Watt University.

“This is a fantastic accolade for her and I'm delighted to see her represent our university on an international stage.”

Professor Paulien Herder, Director of e-Refinery at TU Delft, added: “We know, from working with Mercedes, that she an excellent, collaborative and clear systems thinker, which sets her apart from many other CCUS researchers. We look forward to collaborating with her and her group at Heriot-Watt University in the future through our TU Delft e-Refinery programme.”