Dr Eleanor Nichols, a teaching lecturer within the Department of Physics and Director of Studies for Years 3-5, won the Director of Studies Award at the University Teaching Awards 2026.

The Director of Studies Award recognises the important role played by Directors of Studies in supporting learning and teaching, and their positive impact on the student experience. Professor Julian Chaudhuri, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education), presented the award and said: “In her short time as Director of Studies, Eleanor has made an exceptional impact through innovation, professionalism, and genuine care for students and staff. She has proactively streamlined core processes by developing automated workflows, reducing workload for Directors of Studies across the department. She also led the creation of the Physics Hub, bringing all key teaching information into a single, accessible Moodle page—greatly improving the student experience while making information easier for staff to find. Student feedback consistently highlights her approachability and the positive change she has brought, with one describing her impact as “a breath of fresh air” for the department.”