The award, inaugurated in 1985, which seeks to recognise research within the areas of pure and industrial chemistry, and chemistry education, has been made to Professor de Silva in recognition of his outstanding and ongoing contributions to chemistry at local, national, and international levels.

The award includes the Gold Medal itself, in addition to financial support for the delivery of an award lecture, and is awarded annually to a chemist of any nationality working in Ireland, or an Irish chemist working overseas.

Professor de Silva graduated from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1975, obtained his PhD at Queen's in 1980, and has been a professor of chemistry within the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering since 1997. His world leading work in the areas of fluorescent sensors, supramolecular chemistry, and molecular devices, switches, logic, and computation, has resulted in the development of life-saving sensors which detect levels of electrolytes and gases in blood, in addition to an extensive and impactful publication record.

Speaking of the award, Professor de Silva stated:

"This is a happy moment in which to remember all the staff and students (past and present) of the School in the offices, lecture theatres, teaching labs, research labs, workshops, services, stores and corridors for creating an environment which was/is a haven for me and for a bit of science."

Professor Steven Bell, Head of the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Queen's, added:

"The award of the Boyle Higgins Gold Medal to AP is another well-deserved and timely reminder of his influence across a range of areas within chemistry, and the real value and impact that his work has, and continues to have, on the lives of many people around the world. We are exceptionally proud of AP and his achievements, and he is a massive asset to the School, its students, and his colleagues."

 

For more information about Professor de Silva's research, click HERE.

Media

Media inquiries to Emma Gallagher at Queen’s University Communications Office - Telephone: +44 (0)28 9097 3087 Email: emma.gallagher@qub.ac.uk