Alastair Daley (also known to many as Al), who recently retired after over 32 years of service in the Chemistry department, has been nominated for the The Professor Lord Bhattacharyya Lifetime Achievement Award – an award that recognises the continued excellence and/or significant achievements across an individual’s technical career.
The Papin Prizes are named after Denis Papin, a 17th-century technician who worked with Robert Boyle. Papin invented the steam digester and was one of the first technicians to publish in his own name.
Alastair Daley commented: “All I can say is I’m honoured and pleased to be nominated. I’d also say my longevity as a technician was in no small way due to the support and comradeship of my colleagues. Also, a testament to our collective dedication and versatility. Having a broad skill set is a real help to becoming a successful university technician.” 
Alastair is one of 3 members of technical staff across the University to be nominated for this year’s awards.
The shortlisted staff members are as follows:
- Contribution to Research – Aatif Patel
This award is presented to a member of staff who has made a significant contribution to research.
- Technical team – School of Design and Creative Arts
This category celebrates a group of technicians who have worked together to deliver excellence.
- The Professor Lord Bhattacharyya Lifetime Achievement Award – Alastair Daley
An award that recognises the continued excellence and/or significant achievements across an individual’s technical career
The winners will be announced on 10 November at the Higher Education Technician Summit, which celebrates the success and achievements of technicians in higher education and research.