Outstanding Leeds research officer receives IOM3 award

Dr Zabeada Aslam, Research Officer at the School of Chemical and Process Engineering at University of Leeds, received the Henry Royce Institute Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Technical Professional by the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining (IOM3).

The honour, which debuts this year, recognises the work of one exceptional and established technical professional over a minimum period of ten years, across several projects or activities. Winners must go “beyond the normal expectation of their role”, sharing best practice and supporting the training and development of new staff.

Dr Aslam is a key Research Technical Professional (RTP) member of the Leeds Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy Centre (LEMAS), and offers support to students, academics, and industrial customers. In 2022, Dr Aslam played a key role in procuring and evaluating two unique electron microscopes worth £4 million: a plasma focused ion beam cryo-scanning electron microscope and, in a major collaboration with manufacturer Tescan, a Tensor Scanning TEM (STEM) beta system – the first of its kind in the UK, and only the second in the world.

Dr Kate Thornton, President of IOM3, said: “Recognising the achievements of members, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and quality of work in their fields is important to showcase best practice and encourage others.

“Congratulations to all our 2023 winners – they should all be proud of their remarkable work resulting in these awards.

IOM3’s Awards & Prizes date back to 1874 and raise awareness of engineering and scientific excellence and industry best practice in the field of materials, minerals, and mining, celebrating individuals and organisations that make exceptional advancements to the profession.

Further information

‘IOM3 announces 2023 award winners’, IOM3, 12 June 2023.