Leeds scientist wins Royal Society of Chemistry environment prize

The Royal Society of Chemistry Environment Prize has been awarded to Dwayne Heard, Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry at the University of Leeds and a member of the Priestley International Centre for Climate.

Professor Heard works to improve the accuracy of atmospheric models which guide legislative controls on emissions to combat global warming and deteriorating air quality.

He said: “I am very honoured to have been chosen to receive the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Environment Prize. I hope that this award will acknowledge the importance of the application of fundamental techniques developed in the laboratory to the study of our atmosphere, and the interdisciplinary approach that is necessary to tackle difficult challenges associated with understanding our atmosphere. During the lecture tour I look forward to sharing my group’s research, which has taken us all over the world.”

The Environment Prize is awarded for outstanding contributions to the chemical sciences in the area of environment, sustainability and energy. Professor Heard receives £5000, a medal and a certificate.

The prize winner is evaluated for the originality and impact of their research, as well as the quality of the results, which can be shown in publications, patents, or even software. The award also recognises the importance of teamwork across the chemical sciences, and the abilities of individuals to develop successful collaborations.