The School of Physical Sciences (SPS) recently came together for its fifth Celebrating Success event, recognising the outstanding achievements, contributions, and community spirit of staff across the School.
Held on Wednesday 23rd April in the Brunner Theatre, the afternoon was co-hosted by the SPS Wellbeing Team and the EDI Committee, and led by Lauren McHugh. Now in its fifth year, the event has become a key moment in the School calendar — a chance to pause and celebrate the people who make SPS a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring place to work and study.
Celebrating Success Talks
The afternoon began with a series of short talks from staff and students, offering personal insights into academic journeys, professional experiences, and the challenges overcome along the way.
First to speak was final-year MMath student Will Barnfield, who shared his route from boarding school to Liverpool — and how his passion for mathematics, support from teachers, and a drive to succeed helped him navigate mental health struggles along the way. Will’s honesty and openness left a lasting impression, as he reflected on his award-winning research and national recognition by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.
Dr Cate Cropper followed with a lively talk titled “Cate by name, CATE by nature”, referencing her CATE award win in 2016. She spoke about her collaborative approach to teaching and her continued efforts in outreach and widening participation across the Faculty.
Dr Charlie Devlin, CTL lecturer and Physics outreach lead, shared his non-linear journey into academia — from studying at Liverpool to a period in the nuclear industry, and now returning as a Teaching and Scholarship lecturer.
Finally, Dr Ewan Russell, Centre Lead for the Mathematics Centre for Enhancement in Education, closed the session with a reflection on his academic journey from Scotland to Liverpool, and his work embedding employability and authentic learning into the student experience.
Special Mentions
The talks were followed by a round of Special Mentions delivered by Professor Karl Coleman, Dean of the School, recognising colleagues who go above and beyond in their departments.
This year’s mentions included:
- Rob Clowes (Technician Special Mention): for his outstanding work and approachable leadership in the Cooper Group.
- Gemma Nixon (Chemistry): for her dedication to programme design and student support.
- David Marti Pete (Mathematics): for championing EDI and encouraging new staff engagement.
- Katie Ferraby (Physics): for fostering an inclusive community for women and non-binary colleagues.
- The Physics Inclusion Award Team – Neil McCauley, Brianna Heazlewood, Tim Veal, Saskia Charity – for their collective efforts to promote inclusion and secure recognition for the School's values.
Other nominees were also recognised for their contributions across a wide range of roles and activities:
Sophie Pate, Amine Melaine, Firdaus Parveen, Abbie Scholes, Cate Cropper, Kamila Zychaluk, Anna Pratoussevitch, Kieran Sharley, Tim Veal, Jake Diprose, Vincent Richardson, and Maks Roman.
The event concluded by celebrating both individual and team contributions that help make the School a more welcoming, connected place!
Hannah Melia was announced as this year’s overall winner. She was praised for her tireless work in EDI across the School and departments — supporting events, sharing valuable updates, and taking every opportunity to further her learning and contribution through training and engagement.
Congratulations to all speakers, nominees, and award winners!