Visionary Flow Cytometry Technician Wins Prestigious Times Higher Education Award
Dr Andrew Filby has won the prestigious Outstanding Technician of the Year Award, sponsored by Technician Commitment.
Kelly Vere MBE presented the award at The Times Higher Education Awards, one of the most esteemed events in the sector which recognises outstanding achievements in UK higher education.
Andrew from University of Newcastle was one of eight technicians who were shortlisted. His vision to change research culture and fuel the development of an “Innovation and work” Newcastle University Research Centre of Excellence is what impressed the judges the most.
Kelly Vere MBE, Programme Director for Technician Commitment said: “The judging panel were really impressed by Andrew’s leadership of the university's "Innovation Methodology and Application" (IMA) research Theme in the Faculty of Medical Sciences, where his vision is helping to change research culture for colleagues, academics, technical staff, and students.
“He is based in the Flow Cytometry Core Facility and his technical knowledge and expertise in the field of cytometry is especially evident. He has been able to use his specialism to develop techniques to understand the immunology of Covid-19, form international collaborations and contribute to national and international meetings.
“It’s always a very challenging decision to pick one winner, because the work of all the technicians was outstanding, congratulations to Andrew and shortlisted individuals.”
Andrew’s work also supports PhD students and recognises their contribution to science, alongside other colleagues which is a particular strength of the Innovation, Methods, Applications theme which articulates Andrew’s vision centred around research culture, EDI and team science.
Meet the technicians who were shortlisted for the Outstanding Technician of the Year award.
Kelly added: “The recognition and visibility that this award provides is one part of the work the Technician Commitment is doing. Our initiative is wide reaching and continues to make an impact within higher education and research institutes, changing culture and creating opportunities.”
