The School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering has named the recipients of its 2025 PhD prizes. These awards recognise PhD researcher students for research excellence in materials science and metallurgy.
Mike Sellars Medal and Prize
Winner: Louis Allen
The Mike Sellars Medal and Prize in Materials Science and Engineering was awarded to Louis Allen. Founded in 2013 through the generosity of the family of the late Emeritus Professor Mike Sellars, the award recognises outstanding PhD students in the department. Louis's PhD research developed novel computational approaches to modelling and forecasting in process engineering, including a collaboration with British Steel on the prediction of Jominy end-quench hardness profiles with a joint published paper. Alongside his academic contributions, Louis founded the University spinout Kausalyze, which applies causal AI to deliver root cause analysis and predictive insights for process manufacturers. He has won several business development grants through Innovate UK and the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Brunton Medal for Metallurgical Research
Winners: Josh Berry and Fran Synnott
The Brunton Medal is awarded for original research on metallurgical subjects, supported by the generosity of J. Dixon Brunton, Esq. BMet, of Musselburgh.
Josh Berry transitioned from a physics background to metallurgy at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to restricted laboratory access, he adapted his research to integrate Machine Learning (ML) with CALPHAD methodologies to explore High Entropy Alloys. His work on designing hardmetal matrix phases was published in Advanced Engineering Materials and recognised as a "Top Article of 2024." Following his research, Josh was headhunted by MatNex, which provided direct sponsorship for 50% of his time as a Postdoctoral Research Associate.
Fran Synnott received the medal for her research on high-Cobalt containing Nickel-based superalloys designed for future jet engine applications. Her work investigated the effects of Tantalum and Titanium co-additions, specifically for turbine discs operating at temperatures exceeding 800 °C. By utilising advanced in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction and other characterisation methods, Fran provided data on micro-mechanical and environmental responses that is now used by Rolls-Royce to guide the development of next-generation powder metallurgy alloys. Since completing her PhD, she has been appointed as a Technologist with the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) in the Structures, Manufacturing and Materials team.