Royal recognition for RGU trio

Professor Lorna Dawson, Honorary Professor, RGU and Head of Centre for Forensic Soil Science, The James Hutton Institute, has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to innovations in soil and forensic science. 

Rhona Flin, Professor of Industrial Psychology, is recognised with a CBE for her research which has helped pilots, surgeons, and even rhino-rescuers keep their cool in dangerous situations. 

Our former Governor and honorary graduate, Sylvia Halkerston DBA, is also awarded an OBE for her service to education and young people. She was the first woman to take on the role of Lord Dean of Guild of the City of Aberdeen.

Professor Dame Lorna Dawson said: “Soil forensic science may seem an unsung discipline within the forensic sciences, but its applications — from working with police in search operations, identifying fake goods,  contaminated food and drink, to providing robust scientific evidence that supports the criminal justice system — make a real difference to society in the UK and across the world. 

“I am grateful for the support of my family, my professional networks such as at RGU, and the wider scientific, policy, policing and legal communities, whose collective passion and expertise have made this pioneering work possible. In addition, thanks to the students with whom I have and currently am working, all who have contributed to making this an acknowledged and accepted forensic discipline.”

Main image: Professor Dame Lorna Dawson. Credit: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media