Dr ALex Baker wins prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry Prize
Dr Alex Baker
wins RSC Prize for Excellence in Higher Education
Dr Alexander Baker, Warwick Chemistry, has been named winner of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Early Career Prize for Excellence in Higher Education in recognition of brilliance in chemistry education.
Dr Baker receives £3000, a medal and a certificate.
Alexander's work has sought to increase access to chemistry in universities and deliver a chemistry curriculum that better reflects chemistry globally. This is reflected in his research, which aims to provide therapeutics and diagnosis for neglected tropical diseases.
After receiving the prize, Dr Baker said:
“It was really heartwarming. I teach and research in a space that is often overlooked by mainstream science, so it was refreshing to have my work in trying to encourage, develop and challenge students to look beyond their own circumstances recognised.”
Dr Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said:
“The chemical sciences are at the forefront of tackling a range of challenges facing our world. From fundamental chemistry to cutting-edge innovations, the work that chemical scientists do has an important role to play in building our future".
“The inspiration, innovation and dedication of those who work in education is fundamental to the progress of the chemical sciences – shaping the future and setting our young people up to tackle the challenges and the opportunities facing our society and our planet.
“Dr Baker’s work demonstrates an outstanding commitment to chemistry education, and it is our honour to celebrate their considerable contribution.”
The Royal Society of Chemistry’s prizes have recognised excellence in the chemical sciences for more than 150 years. This year’s winners join a prestigious list of past winners in the RSC’s prize portfolio, 60 of whom have gone on to win Nobel Prizes for their work, including 2022 Nobel Laureate Carolyn Bertozzi and 2019 Nobel laureate John B Goodenough.
The Excellence in Education Prizes celebrate inspirational, innovative, and dedicated people working in primary, secondary, further education and higher education – including teachers, technicians and more. These prizes recognise a wide range of skills – from curriculum design to effective teaching, and from personal development to working culture. This category includes specific prizes for teams and for those in the early stages of their career.
For more information about the RSC’s prizes portfolio, visit rsc.li/prizesLink opens in a new window.