National recognition for Professor Simon Biggs
Professor Simon Biggs (Institute of Particle Science and Engineering) has been elected as a new Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Professor Biggs' research is within the broad area of colloid and interfacial science. His research group is especially interested in the measurement and control of interfacial structures formed by polymers and surfactants. Using this information the group is working to develop a more systematic approach to the formulation of particle dispersions. In related work, it is investigating the use of novel stimulus responsive polymers for the formation of new types of capsules that can be used as controlled release products.
The Royal Academy of Engineering is one of the most prestigious engineering academies in the world. The citation for Professor Biggs states that he received the honour for being: "Distinguished for achievements in the application of colloid and interface science to the development of new functional materials and innovations in the engineering particulate systems in the chemicals, minerals and nuclear sectors."
"It's a great pleasure to be honoured in this way by my peers," said Professor Biggs. "Throughout my career I've been fortunate to work with an incredible array of talented academic colleagues, research students and post-doctoral researchers. They have all contributed to and shaped my career and without their support and dedication, I'm certain I wouldn't have achieved any of the things that I have.
"My area of research interest is particles in fluids. Although I didn't appreciate it at the time, this was a fortunate choice for a PhD since such systems are ubiquitous both in the natural and industrial world. As a result, I've been able to work with a fantastic variety of industries on all sorts of practical problems for which our expertise and experience has an application. This has taught me a great deal about turning fundamental knowledge into useful practical outcomes or, put another way, engineering a solution!"
Professor Peter Jimack, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, said: "I'm absolutely delighted that Professor Biggs has been elected as a Fellow of the Academy. This is an honour that he richly deserves, based upon many years of outstanding contribution to the engineering discipline. Simon is a rare breed of academic who is able to excel in all areas, from student education through to research and innovation; furthermore, he has demonstrated continued leadership and influence across this spectrum. He is an outstanding role model for us all."