UNIVERSITY of York professor Pratibha Gai has been appointed a Dame (DBE)for services to chemical sciences and technology.

Professor Gai is the founding co-director of York’s JEOL Nanocentre and professor of electron microscopy in York’s departments of chemistry and physics.

Professor Gai said: “I am truly humbled to receive this national honour and delighted that the research has received this wonderful recognition.

“This honour belongs to all the outstanding co-researchers and staff I have collaborated with. I am grateful to them and my main funders the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).”

Vice chancellor, Professor Koen Lamberts said: “Pratibha is an outstanding academic who has contributed hugely to chemical sciences and technology over many years.

“She is an inspirational leader in her field and this honour is a wonderful acknowledgement of the impact her research has made in the world.”

And Dr Nick Rowe, associate professor in theatre and director of Converge at York St John University, has been appointed MBE for services to mental health service users in Yorkshire and the North East.

Dr Rowe, who has worked at the university for 25 years, was recognised for his tireless volunteering to establish the pioneering Converge project, which offers high quality educational opportunities, free at the point of access, to people who have used mental health services in the York region.

A spokesperson said: “Nick’s passion and vision has inspired support from across the university to offer a range of Converge courses that provide life-changing opportunities to those who truly benefit from the power of education.

“We are delighted that Nick has been recognised with an MBE for his services to mental health service users and warmly congratulate him for all he has achieved.”

Dr Rowe said: “So many others are equally deserving of recognition but I am thrilled and honoured to receive this award. It would not be possible without the hard work of York St John University’s staff and students, NHS colleagues and of course, Converge staff and students.”