Honours even for Manchester staff

18 Jun 2009

Two University members of staff are celebrating this week after receiving OBEs in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List

Professor Helen Gleeson, Head of the School of Physics and Astronomy and Dr Linda Magee, Chief Operating Officer of the Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC), both received the honour.

Professor Gleeson was recognised for her services to science. She is active in promoting her area of research - Liquid Crystals - on both a national and international level. 

She has also worked to encourage young people in their science careers and early career scientists in academia. She was particularly praised for her work on making science more attractive to girls.

Dr Magee’s award came in recognition of her services to the biotechnology industry. Commenting on her award Dr Magee said: “I was surprised and delighted to hear the news – it’s nice to know that your efforts are recognised by your colleagues and peers.”

Dr Magee originally worked at the University in the 1990s when she was instrumental in the development and launch of the Manchester Biotechnology Incubator Building.

After a stint working at the NWDA, she has now returned to the University with her role at MAHSC – a partnership between six NHS organisations in Greater Manchester and the University aimed at underpinning the development of Greater Manchester as a world leader in health research.