The Graduate Citizenship Award recognises students who have contributed significantly to the RDM community, fostering a culture of support and wellbeing beyond the normal expectation of a student member.
Megan Payne (Bhattacharya Group) was nominated by her supervisors who commented on Megan’s exceptional contributions to the department and wider university community. Nominators said Megan’s creative input was instrumental in planning engaging activities, and that she plays a vital role in organising events such as RDM Careers Day and RDM Away Day. Megan is also recognised for her commitment to student wellbeing and mental health support and has been described a ‘pillar of support’ to fellow students.
Megan said: ‘RDM is a fantastic community filled with wonderful people. So many of them help to make RDM a great place to work. I’m delighted to have been nominated, never mind having been selected for this award. Thank you!’
Charlotte Frazer-Morris (Hodson Group) has been recognised for her involvement with the RDM Researcher Association, RDM Student Forum and RDM Careers Day. Charlotte was described by her nominators as an ‘exceptional and committed member of the RDM graduate community’ and a ‘key port of call for outreach activities with OCDEM and beyond’. As a Committee member of the Researchers Association, Charlotte helps ensure inclusiveness and cohesion across the RDM divisions by organisations events such as the Women Supporting Science panel discussion.
On winning her award, Charlotte commented: ‘I am extremely grateful to be recognised for this award as I feel a strong sense of belonging in RDM and work hard to help others feel the same. I believe that strong research relies not only on skill at the bench but on fostering a sense of community and collaboration amongst researchers, so I am proud to have contributed to that in my own small way.’
The winners will be presented with their awards at RDM Day on 17 March.