Dundee academics honoured as RSE Prize Winners

Two scientists from the College of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee are among the winners of the Royal Society of Edinburgh's inaugural prizes, recognising some of the top talent in Scotland at both senior and early career levels.

Professor Geoffrey Gadd, a world pioneer in the growing field of geomicrobiology, receives the RSE/Sir James Black Prize for his outstanding contribution to his field.

Dr Nicola Stanley-Wall, lecturer in the Division of Molecular Microbiology, receives the RSE/Patrick Neil Medal, the early career prize in the field of life sciences, for her outstanding research work, leadership skills and public engagement activities. Dr Stanley-Wall runs a highly successful research group at the university and her work in encouraging young people to take an interest in microbiology has included organising the two-day ‘Magnificent Microbes’ event at the Dundee Science Centre.

Professor Gadd said, "It is a great honour to receive the Sir James Black Medal from the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and I am so pleased that our research on important environmental roles of microbes has been recognised in this way. Microbial interactions with metals and minerals influences many geological processes, as well as plant productivity and human health, and an important part of our research examines ways in which microbes can be used to combat pollution.”

Dr Stanley-Wall said, "I am delighted to receive the RSE/Patrick Neil Medal and to have our work on the social life of bacterial communities recognised. It is wonderful to see young school children and their teachers so inspired when we tell them about the importance of the unseen world of microbes for our general well-being."