This year's City of Aberdeen Quincentenary Awards are being presented today (Thursday, May 20) to two University of Aberdeen students.
Michael Simpson and Ross George Jeffrey are the successful winners of the 2003/04 City of Aberdeen Quincentennial Medals and Prize.
They will both be presented with their awards at a Reception at the Town House this afternoon at 4.00pm.
Michael is a fifth year student pursuing the degree of Master of Chemistry. His academic record is outstanding and he is expected to obtain a first class honours degree. Professor Corrie Imrie, Head of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, was delighted to commend Michael.
He said: "Michael is consistently achieving the highest marks possible. He has an excellent grasp of the theoretical aspects of chemistry while being a first class experimentalist.
"He has been awarded competitive scholarships to undertake research during the summer recesses and one of these has resulted in publication in the highly prestigious Journal of the American Chemical Society."
Professor Imrie added: "Michael has intimated that he sees his long-term future in Scotland. I very much hope that this is the case and that he will become one of our academic leaders in the future."
Michael said: "It was a wonderful surprise to be nominated for this award by the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences. Coming to the end of my degree, I have every intention of staying on for another three years to do a PhD in chemistry. I have benefited greatly from my time in the Department and this award reflects well on all of my lecturers. I will continue to work hard in my future career and hope to undertake research which will benefit society."
Ross Jeffrey is a fourth year student pursuing the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.
Professor Mike Greaves, Head of the School of Medicine, has commended him as being of great credit to the School. He said: "Ross is a fine example of a modern day student doctor. He shows very sincere qualities of honesty, integrity and solid determination. I wish him every success for the future."
Ross said: "I am honoured that the School of Medicine proposed me for this award. Having been at the University since 1993, where I achieved a 2.1 in Pharmacology, and more recently my PhD in Cancer Research, means I share a great affinity with this institution.
"I worked hard to combine my medical studies, with the completion of my PhD, so that I am able to use my knowledge of cancer to benefit those that require it most - patients in the front line."
The Quincentennial Prize is an annual award, established to honour and recognise the efforts and talents of students, while marking the University's 500th anniversary. To become eligible for the awards, students are nominated by their Heads of Schools within the University.
Each of the two winners will receive a medal and a cash prize.