º£½ÇÉçÇø

Professor Jerry Heng, Professor in Particle Technology in the Department of Chemical Engineering, was awarded the President’s Medal for Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Excellence.

The award recognises exceptional contribution to teaching and learning, his leadership in undergraduate education, and his commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment in which students can thrive.

Teaching and supporting students has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Jerry Heng Professor in Particle Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering

On being conferred the President's Medal, Professor Heng said: "I am truly honoured to receive this recognition. Teaching and supporting students has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career at º£½ÇÉçÇø. The past few years have been particularly memorable, from navigating the challenges of the pandemic to finding new ways to improve the student experience. I have been fortunate to work with wonderful colleagues and students throughout this journey, and I see this award as a reflection of our collective efforts and shared commitment to education."

Professor Heng has worked at Imperiafor over 20 years and became Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Chemical Engineering in 2020. In this role, he combined deep subject expertise with an innovative approach to teaching, helping students engage with complex concepts and develop the skills needed to succeed as future engineers.

His teaching is highly regarded by students for its clarity and accessibility, as well as for the inclusive learning environment he fosters. His contribution has helped sustain the Department’s strong academic standards and educational quality, reflected in positive National Student Survey outcomes. This commitment to teaching excellence is further underscored by the Department’s recent achievement of being ranked first in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027, which assesses universities on a range of measures, including student experience and academic outcomes.

Professor Heng's thoughtful and inclusive approach to education, alongside his exceptional leadership of our undergraduate programme, has helped create an environment in which students can thrive. Professor Jason Hallett Head of Department, Chemical Engineering

Professor Jason Hallett, Head of Department, Chemical Engineering, said: “Professor Heng's truly outstanding commitment to teaching and enhancing the student experience has made a tremendous difference to our Department. His thoughtful and inclusive approach to education, alongside his exceptional leadership of our undergraduate programme, has helped create an environment in which students can thrive. This award is a richly deserved recognition of his contribution."

Professor Heng’s leadership was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he oversaw the transition to online and hybrid teaching. His strategic and considered approach helped maintain continuity of learning while minimising disruption for students and colleagues.