Professor Marian Wiercigroch FRSE FREng, from the University of Aberdeen, has been awarded the prestigious Yanzhao Friendship Award by the Hebei Provincial Government in China.
The accolade, regarded as the highest honour granted to international experts in the region, recognises Professor Wiercigroch’s outstanding contributions to advancing scientific research, technological innovation and educational collaboration between the UK and Hebei Province.
Professor Wiercigroch, a leading figure in applied mechanics and engineering, has worked extensively with Hebei institutions since 2017. His efforts have led to major advances in joint research, talent exchange programmes and industrial innovation initiatives, including high-end equipment manufacturing and sustainable development projects.
Professor Wiercigroch’s leadership has enabled close cooperation between the University of Aberdeen and Hebei partners. This has included the establishment of joint courses, staff and student exchange opportunities, and the training of over 200 young research talents, significantly deepening international collaboration.
Reflecting on the award, Professor Wiercigroch said: “I regard this award as both a great honour and a responsibility to further strengthen the links between the UK and China. With nearly 80 million people, Hebei Province is a dynamic region with huge potential for joint initiatives in education and technology. Especially in times of global transformation, we need stable partnerships built on mutual respect, shared interests and sustainable growth.”
Professor Ekaterina Pavlovskaia, Head of the School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen, praised the recognition: “This award is a tremendous achievement for Professor Wiercigroch and a testament to the University of Aberdeen’s global impact. His dedication to building bridges between our institutions has not only advanced cutting-edge research but also created invaluable opportunities for our students and staff to engage in meaningful international collaboration.”
Professor Siladitya Bhattacharya, Vice-Principal for Global Engagement, added: “International partnerships are at the heart of our mission and this award reflects the strong and enduring relationship between the University of Aberdeen and our colleagues in Hebei. We are proud of Professor Wiercigroch’s achievements, which exemplify how academic cooperation can foster innovation, cultural exchange and long-term global connections.”
The award ceremony took place last month in the Xiong’an New Area, one of China’s most significant hubs for innovation and development, where the honour was personally presented by Mr Wang Zhengpu, Governor of Hebei Province.
By receiving the Yanzhao Friendship Award, Professor Wiercigroch joins a distinguished group of international figures who have made significant contributions to Hebei’s economic, scientific and technological development since the award’s establishment in 2002.