Chris was recently awarded the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for Services to Higher Education. He has also received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Queen's Staff Excellence Awards for his longstanding service as a leading member of the School's technical team. Chris played a leading role in the move into a £40M new Biological Sciences building at Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, which opened in 2019.

Speaking after the ceremony on Saturday 6 May, Chris said: "I was relieved and honoured to be part of the Coronation of King Charles III. It was a privilege to have received an invitation to such an historic and prestigious event, considering the relatively small number that could be present in the Abbey.

"This was a weekend that brought the best out in some people," he added, with characteristic, down-to-earth attitude. "They helped me to actually get to the Abbey - even offering me their seats on the flight (the third of the day) to get me there on time! It’s very reassuring to know that in times of crisis, someone will always come to your aid."

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For further information, please contact Communications Officer Una Bradley on u.bradley@qub.ac.uk