Dr David Liptrot from the Department of Chemistry has been appointed by the Royal Society as one of 43 new University Research Fellows (URFs) for 2019.

Dr Liptrot works on a conceptual approach to making molecules that is rational and logical. The hope is that this will provide a toolkit to make new molecules and materials to address upcoming challenges to society.

He said: “It’s a privilege to be recognised by such a prestigious and historic organisation. It’s also rather a relief as it gives me the space to work on very fundamental chemistry for the foreseeable future. I plan to use the fellowship to do this and try and discover new, useful reactions.”

The University Research Fellowship scheme was established to identify outstanding early career scientists who have the potential to become leaders in their chosen fields, providing them with the opportunity to build an independent research career.

The scheme is extremely competitive and URFs are expected to be strong candidates for permanent posts in universities at the end of their fellowships, with many alumni having gone on to enjoy significant national or intern national recognition for their work.

Fellows have the opportunity to access a range of training programmes covering topics including leadership, science communication and public engagement, and to participate in activities coordinated by the science policy, public engagement, schools outreach and industry engagement teams at the Society.

The researchers will take up their new posts at institutions across the UK and Ireland from the start of October.