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Two academics from Swansea University are among the latest recipients of the Learned Society of Wales’ medals, announced at the Society’s AGM on Wednesday, 20th May.
The medals recognise outstanding contributions in research and scholarship. They are a celebration of the achievements of both the individuals honoured and of the academic sector of Wales, from universities to schools.
Menelaus Medal
Professor Nidal Hilal, Chair in Water Processing Engineering, Swansea University, has won the Learned Society of Wales’ Menelaus Medal 2020, awarded to celebrate excellence in engineering and technology.
Professor Hilal is founder and director of the Centre for Water Advanced Treatment and Environmental Research (CWATER). A world leader in desalination and membrane technology, Professor Hilal researches the development of solutions to global water problems using advanced engineering approaches.
On receiving the medal, Professor Hilal said: "I am honoured to be awarded the Menelaus Medal of the Learned Society of Wales.
"The global water crisis has become a pressing 21st century challenge, worsening with increasing water demand worldwide. My research in innovative desalination and water treatment technologies has been crucial in feeding a thirsty world as it has allowed us to tap into abundant resources such as seawater."
Dillwyn Medal Dillwyn Medal Winner 2020 (Humanities & Creative Arts)
Dr Gwennan Higham, Senior Lecturer in Welsh, Swansea University, has won the Learned Society of Wales’ Dillwyn Medal 2020 (Humanities & Creative Arts), awarded in recognition of early career research excellence.
Dr. Higham carries out research into minority languages, multiculturalism and citizenship, having previously completed a doctorate on teaching Welsh to immigrants. She has also researched linguistic integration and the French language in Quebec. Dr Higham’s work examines the relationship between ethnic and civic identities and the need to define and establish Welsh multi-ethnic citizenship.
On receiving the medal, Dr Higham said: "It is an honour for my research to be recognised in this way. Teaching Welsh to immigrants and the implications on citizenship and multiculturalism in Wales is an ongoing project which I hope will see further developments in policy and practice in years to come.
"I am truly grateful to the Department of Welsh and Swansea University for supporting my research journey to date."