Professor Andrew Lloyd, Interim Vice-Chancellor of the Â̲èÖ±²¥, said:
"Professor Alison Bruce's recognition with the 2024 Institute of Physics Ernest Rutherford Medal is a truly momentous achievement, and we are incredibly proud to see her receive this prestigious award. As the first female to win this medal as a sole recipient, Professor Bruce not only represents a ground-breaking figure in nuclear physics but also an inspiring role model for women in science across the globe.
Her pioneering work in understanding nuclear properties, with far-reaching implications, reflects the Â̲èÖ±²¥’s commitment to impactful, world-leading research. We are delighted that her exceptional contributions, leadership, and innovation have been recognised at this level, and we look forward to the continued global impact of her research."
The , is awarded for distinguished contribution to nuclear physics and was first awarded in 1942. The only previous female winner, Joan Freeman, shared the prize in 1976.
The Institute of Physics (IOP) is the leading body for practising physicists, in the UK and Ireland.
Institute of Physics President, Professor Sir Keith Burnett, said:
“On behalf of the Institute of Physics, I want to congratulate all of this year’s award winners.
‘Today’s world faces many challenges which physics will play an absolutely fundamental part in addressing, whether it’s securing the future of our economy or the transition to sustainable energy production and net zero.
Our award winners are in the vanguard of that work and each one has made a significant and positive impact in their profession, whether as a researcher, teacher, industrialist, technician or apprentice. I hope they are incredibly proud of their achievements; they really should be.
“There is so much focus today on the opportunities generated by a career in physics and the potential our science has to transform our society and economy, and I hope the stories of our winners will help to inspire future generations of scientists."