2025 Technician Awards
On 9 September 2025, colleagues gathered to celebrate the third annual University of Edinburgh Technician Awards. The event recognised the outstanding contributions of technical staff across the University, individuals who play a vital role in teaching, research, infrastructure, and community life.
With over 100 nominations across five categories, the Awards highlighted the skill, creativity, and dedication that technicians bring to the University every day. The winners and the shortlisted nominees were presented with certificates and vouchers at the award ceremony by Professor Kim Graham, Provost, and Dr Catherine Martin, Vice-Principal Corporate Services.
Contributions to Learning & Teaching
Gen Harrison, receives their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
Peter Bently, Garry Ellard, Gen Harrison, Joe Hathway, Wendy Housam receive their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna
This award recognises technical staff who excel in supervising, training, and mentoring students and staff, as well as contributing to teaching, outreach, and public engagement. The shortlisted nominees in this category are Peter Bentley, Garry Ellard, Gen Harrison, Joe Hathway and Wendy Housam.
The winner of this award is Gen Harrison
Gen Harrison, a printmaking technician at ECA, stood out for her dedication to supporting student learning. Over the past year, she collaborated on the design and delivery of Year 1 workshops, key Letterpress activities, and new introductory sessions in printmaking. She also organised postgraduate taster sessions and encouraged both academic and technical colleagues to engage with printmaking, helping to build a strong creative community. Gen’s warmth, expertise, and commitment have made her a valued mentor and colleague.
Contribution to Research and Innovation
Peter Black, Kyle Morrison and Neil Duncan receive their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna
Peter Black and Kyle Morrison receive their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
This category recognises technical staff who have made significant contributions to advancing research and innovation within their field. The shortlisted nominees in this category are Peter Black, Neil Duncan and Kyle Morrison.
The winners of this award are Peter Black and Kyle Morrison
Peter Black was praised for his inventive design solutions, including leading the development of a new compact scattering chamber for silicon detector experiments. His ingenuity has advanced the School of Physics & Astronomy’s international research profile and inspired colleagues and students alike.
Kyle Morrison has transformed interdisciplinary research at the Edinburgh Futures Institute. By co-authoring a research paper on digital scaffolding and developing innovative “Data Playground” concepts, Kyle has bridged technical and creative workflows, supporting collaboration across disciplines.
Both Peter and Kyle demonstrated technical excellence, creativity, and leadership, earning well-deserved recognition.
Contribution to Infrastructure and Facilities
Highly commended nominees receive their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna
Denise Affleck receives their certificate from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
This award recognises technical staff who support buildings, facilities, and essential services for laboratories and workshops. The shortlisted nominees for this category are Denise Affleck, Andrew Brown, Malcolm Cruickshank, Joanna Hobbs, Shareen Sorour and Mark Thompson.
The winner of this award is Denise Affleck
With 21 years of service at the Michael Swann Media and Wash-up facility, Denise has been a cornerstone of research support. In the past year, she single-handedly ensured continuity of vital media preparation services during staff shortages, supporting over 200 researchers. Known for her reliability, precision, and calm approach, Denise has also mentored incoming staff ahead of her upcoming retirement, leaving behind a lasting legacy of excellence.
Apprentice/Trainee Technician
Emma Dickson receives their certificate from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
This award recognises early career technicians who have shown exceptional potential and growth within the first four years of their career.
The winner of this award is Emma Dickson.
Joining as a Modern Apprentice just last year, Emma quickly proved her adaptability and dedication. She developed new skills in supporting practical classes, took on responsibilities beyond her role, and even led outreach events and “offer holder” days at short notice. Her positive attitude and commitment have made her an invaluable member of the Edinburgh Medical School technical team.
Contribution to the University’s Culture, Community and Environment
Highly commended nominees receive their certificates from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna
Andrea Robertson receives their certificate from Kim Graham and Catherine Martin. Photo by Neil Hanna www.neilhannaphotography.co.uk
This award celebrates staff who strengthen community, citizenship, and sustainability across the University. This award was sponsored by Filamentive. The shortlisted nominees in this category are Michael Capeness, Holly Morton, Jenni Rennie, Andrea Robertson and Erin Smith
The winner of this award is Andrea Robertson
Andrea has been instrumental in fostering community and sustainability at the Western General Hospital campus. As Technician Steering Committee Champion, she has built networks, supported career development, and advocated for professional registration. Andrea also chairs the Sustainability Group, driving the Institute towards a Silver Award. Her dedication has greatly enriched both the technical community and the wider University culture.
The Technician Awards shine a light on the often-unsung contributions of technical staff who ensure that the University thrives in its teaching, research, and community life. From developing groundbreaking research tools to fostering sustainability, this year’s winners and nominees have gone above and beyond in their roles.
Congratulations to all of our winners, highly commended colleagues and everyone who was nominated and thank you for everything you do to support the University of Edinburgh.
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