Warner presentation prize sparks energy debate

Dr Camille Petit from Imperial College London, UK, was presented with the third Sir Frederick Warner Prize by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) earlier this week. The award pays tribute to the memory of IChemE past president, the late Sir Frederick ‘Ned’ Warner, and is typically given to high achievers in sustainable or nuclear chemical process technology.

Dr Petit was commended for her research into nanomaterials, and how they can be used to tackle global energy challenges. Her prize presentation, ‘Little solutions to big problems’, described the research in more detail, with a focus on carbon capture.

Camille, who currently lectures at Imperial College London within the chemical engineering department, was delighted to receive the award, saying: "It is a great honour to receive any award, but especially the Sir Warner Prize. His drive to change things for the best has truly been evident throughout his working life.”

The medal was presented by IChemE president, Andrew Jamieson, who said: ”The Sir Frederick Warner prize reminds us that IChemE is an organisation that builds a strong future based on a proud past. Camille Petit is part of that future and a worthy winner.”

The biennial event took place at IChemE’s London HQ in Portland Place and was also attended by IChemE past president, Geoff Maitland, and Head of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London, Professor Andrew Livingston.

IChemE’s technical vice president, AstraZeneca’s Jon-Paul Sherlock, was also there to welcome guests, and commented: "Sustainable energy is a global issue. Camille’s work is evident that chemical engineering matters, because it impacts on our daily life and our future.”

IChemE Energy Centre board chair, and the new dean of engineering at Brunel University, UK, Professor Stef Simons, agreed: "Chemical engineers have a unique contribution to make in the energy and climate change debate. Work like Camille’s is incredibly important as we move to a low-carbon future.”

Sir Warner’s family also attended the event, and joined guests to celebrate Ned’s legacy and congratulate Dr Petit. Lady Barbara Warner was presented with a bouquet by president Andrew Jamieson to thank her for the family’s support of the event.