Scientist honoured for voluntary work by Royal Society of Chemistry

An Assistant Professor at Northumbria University won the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Award for Exceptional Service in recognition of his inspirational work as a volunteer. 

Dr Graeme Turnbull, who is based in the Department of Applied Sciences, was awarded the prize for his outstanding service to the Royal Society of Chemistry.

The Volunteer Recognition Prizes celebrate those who give their time freely in numerous ways, from serving on boards and committees to working on public engagement initiatives.

Graeme was recognised for his work with the RSC’s member communities and governance groups, and his support for the Analytical Science Community through local and national activities.

His volunteering work has focused on getting people to find fun in science, engage with the chemical sciences and has included working with primary and secondary school children, as well as retired members of the RSC.

Graeme is the current secretary of the Analytical Sciences Community North East Region and the Newcastle upon Tyne and North East Coast Local Section, of which he has been a member for 15 years.

He was also recently appointed a trustee of the Analytical Chemistry Trust Fund.

He said: “I was very surprised when I found out I had won the award, with my nominees keeping very quiet about it!

“My volunteering work has covered everything from a demonstration lecture on the chemistry of jelly and ice cream where I explore food science with primary school children, to the Schools' Analyst Competition where we challenge older students to think about analytical science in the world around them.

“I’ve also helped to organise and deliver outreach events at Alnwick Garden where we welcomed hundreds of families who learned about the chemistry of plant poisons and dyes and created artwork with cabbages, and supported Retired Members' visits to local landmarks, where they teach me about history. I have enjoyed every single activity and seen smiles on a lot of faces. 

“I'm grateful to all of the students, teachers, members, colleagues, and friends who have helped me organise my events and have such fun over the last 15 years, and motivated to keep on doing more. These are all people I wouldn't have had the privilege to meet without getting involved in volunteering. The activities develop your confidence, your organisational skills, and your comfort with networking and I'd recommend it to anyone.”

Professor Gary Black, Head of Department of Applied Sciences, said: “The department is very proud of Graeme’s achievement. Although, it does not surprise me at all, as Graeme’s zest for chemistry is obvious from the moment you meet him.”

Dr Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: “Our prize winners come from a vast array of backgrounds, all contributing in different ways to our base of knowledge and bringing fresh ideas and innovations.

“Their passion, dedication and brilliance are an inspiration. I extend my warmest congratulations to them all.” 

Northumbria University’s Department of Applied Sciences offers a range of subjects including chemistry, biology, biomedical sciences, forensic science, food and nutritional sciences at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Anyone wanting to find out more can visit our Open Days on Friday 27 June and Saturday 28 June.