Environment technicians shortlisted for Papin Prize
Three outstanding technicians in the Faculty of Environment are on the shortlist for the UK Institute for Technical Skills & Strategy’s 2025 Papin Prize.
The Papin Prizes are national awards dedicated to celebrating the very best technical staff and teams in academia and research, raising the visibility and recognition of technical professionals.
Miles Ratcliffe, Helena Brown and David Ashley are all among the shortlisted technical professionals.
Following a drive from the University's Technician Commitment leads, colleagues across the Faculty of Environment contributed to the award nominations.
This included academics, experimental officers, technicians and heads of school, demonstrating the appreciation for technical colleagues’ contributions to the Faculty.
Five technicians from the Faculty of Environment received nominations and three have been shortlisted for the awards.
Miles Ratcliffe, Technical Manager in the School of Food Science and Nutrition, is one of six technicians shortlisted for their Contribution to Infrastructure and Facilities.
Miles, an experienced technical team manager, has led on the design and implementation of infrastructure and buildings projects totalling over £3 million, creating the bespoke, state-of-the-art labs and facilities that enable delivery of the school’s impactful research.
Helena Brown, Technician Specialist for Sorby Environmental Fluid Dynamics Laboratory in the School of Earth and Environment, is shortlisted for the Contribution to Outreach category.
Helena is a technical specialist in particle sizing and field research with a clear passion for equity, diversity and inclusion, and outreach. She has led on a broad range of initiatives and outreach interventions which have widened participation in Earth Sciences.
David Ashley, Senior Technician in the School of Geography, is shortlisted for his Contribution to Research.
David is an expert in analytical instrumentation. His capabilities in installing experimental equipment underpin a large proportion of the sector-leading research success of the School of Geography.
Emma Black, Technical Services Manager for the Faculty, said: “We are delighted to see our highly skilled technical professionals receive nominations from a wide range of Faculty colleagues, demonstrating a deep appreciation for their vital work. Our technical professionals have unique skillsets which are key to delivering our transformative research and positive student experiences.”
The winners will be chosen by a panel of Pro Vice Chancellors from Midlands Innovation and announced at the 2025 UK Higher Education Technician Summit (HETS) in July 2025.
