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The University of Southampton
Chemistry

Top honour for Southampton's modest chemistry lab technician

Published: 11 May 2016
John Fosbraey
John Fosbraey

Chemistry laboratory technician John Fosbraey has been named Higher Education Technician of the Year by the Royal Society of Chemistry for his ‘unstinting support and encouragement of his students’. He has worked at the University of Southampton for 14 years and says he loves his job.

“It’s all about the students, I enjoy every minute of helping them complete their practical sessions in the lab, it’s just not the same during vacation time when they are not there,” he says. “I didn’t believe it at first when the RSC called me to tell me the news but when they mentioned that Professor David Read had nominated me, I knew it wasn’t a hoax.”

David explains: “John has evolved his role into that of a dedicated teacher who takes every opportunity to assist students in developing their practical skills in a safe and welcoming environment. He goes far beyond what would be expected of someone in his role, and helps to inspire students to excel in their laboratory work.”

Before joining Southampton, John worked at the Abbott Laboratories pharmaceutical company and in brake fluid research at Shell Amsterdam.

“As a Marshall at Graduation, I get a great thrill from seeing students receiving their awards, especially those who struggled with their lab work earlier at University,” adds John.

The RSC annual awards recognise achievements and excellence across the chemical sciences.

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