The award recognises students who have made a significant contribution to the RDM community, fostering a culture of support and wellbeing beyond the normal expectation of a student.
Casey Johnson (CCRF / Leeson Group) was nominated by colleagues who described him as a role model for kindness, generosity and community spirit. Casey is involved with numerous initiatives in RDM, including the RDM Student Induction, RDM Researcher Association, RDM Student Forum and the EDI Committee. Nominators said that Casey is a strong advocate for equality and inclusion, and noted that he has actively improved the student experience by championing inclusive practices and ensuring that all voices are heard. Casey has also been described as the ‘driving force’ behind the Leeson Group’s social and community culture, independently organising the team’s social events, which enhances team morale, and in particular, provides a sense of belonging and inclusion for international colleagues, by helping them celebrate culturally important occasions. One nominator also highlighted Casey’s commitment to outreach by volunteering at the OxPlore Festival – a large event for school students designed to introduce scientific ideas to young people and broaden access to higher education.
On winning the award, Casey said: ‘I’m very grateful to receive this award. RDM really is a close-knit department and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to play a small part in bringing everyone together and improving the wellbeing of our academic community.’
Alexander Redmond (Rehwinkel Group) has been recognised for his exceptional service inclusive leadership, empathy, kindness and someone who makes many contributions to building a stronger graduate community. Alex was the President of the MRC WIMM Graduate Students Association (WGSA) from October 2022 to July 2025 and nominators cited his involvement with organising events that strengthened the graduate community, peer support and providing platforms for academic exchange. Nominators described how the WGSA became a cornerstone of the graduate experience under Alex’s leadership, and the activities he led played an important role in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, particularly for new students. Alex has also contributed over several years to the welcome and induction for new RDM students, and to information sessions for candidates during RDM DPhil interviews.
Alex said: ‘I’m honoured to be recognised with this award, and it was a privilege to chair the WGSA over the past three years. RDM has many wonderful communities and societies, and I’d encourage everyone to seek them out or get involved. Science is all about tackling challenges, but a problem shared is a problem halved, and sometimes the insight you need is closer than you think. The more we connect and support one another, the stronger our science becomes.’
The winners will be presented with their awards at RDM Day on Tuesday 17 March.