Congratulations to the three current members of the University community and two alumni who were awarded honours in the 2022 Queen’s New Year Honours.

Paul Fairie, Head of Operations at the Lighthouse Laboratory Glasgow, received an MBE for his services to the NHS during COVID-19.

Dr Syed Ahmed, Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer (IHW), received an OBE for his work as Clinical Director at Health Protection Scotland and for services to the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme.

Peter Law, Honorary Research Associate, Institute for Gravitational Research, was awarded the Medal of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for voluntary services to Advanced Higher Physics Education in Glasgow.

Alumnus and Scotland's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Gregor Smith, was awarded Knighthood for services to public health. Prof Smith is an Honorary Clinical Associate Professor at the University.

Rod Mackenzie, Chief Development Officer and Executive Vice-President for Pfizer and an alumnus of the University, was nominated by the University for services to Public Health during COVID-19. He was awarded a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George.

In response to receiving his MBE, Paul Fairie said: “I was delighted to receive an MBE in the recent New Year’s Honours in recognition of my work at the Lighthouse Laboratory Glasgow, I was surprised and honoured to receive this.  The success of the lab is due to a massive team effort.  The 24/7 working has been difficult, however, very rewarding to know that the collaborative contribution has had a positive impact in the nations fight against the pandemic.”

Peter Law has been undertaking voluntary work on behalf of the School of Physics and Astronomy with schools across Scotland, to support pupils undertaking Advanced Higher Physics. Speaking about being awarded the BEM, Peter said: “This could not have been achieved were it not for the friendly support of both academic and technician staff within the School of Physics and Astronomy.

“I am especially grateful for the opportunity, given to me by Professor (Jim) Hough and Professor (Sheila) Rowan, to have had so many happy years of helping pupils with their projects.

“I am surprised and delighted with my BEM I have received; however, I feel a little guilty that I should be so honoured for such enjoyable voluntary work.”

First published: 18 January 2022

<< 19 January 2022