IBMS member shortlisted for MAD Award
15th June marked the 6th annual Made a Difference Awards (MAD Awards), organised by the Students Union at Anglia Ruskin University. This is a way for students to formally thank the staff whom have made a difference in their lives during their academic careers.
A Fellow of the IBMS, Dr Christopher O’Kane is a lecturer in biomedical science at Anglia Ruskin University, and leads the modules of Physical Principles, Mathematics for the Biosciences and Diagnostic Techniques in Pathology as well as contributing to teaching on other modules.
Having received several nominations, Christopher was shortlisted under the category “Inclusive Lecturer Award”, which recognises individuals who bring everyone into the discussion, have a diverse curriculum and overcome any prejudices that may develop. Christopher was the only non-senior member of staff and the only member from the Science and Technology Faculty to be shortlisted in this category.
Professor Christopher Parris, Head of Department for Biomedical and Forensic Science at Anglia Ruskin, commented how proud their department felt at Christopher’s shortlisting, “particularly as it comes during his first year of lecturing, while completed a PG Certification in Learning & Teaching in Higher Education. Having the ability to increase individual’s confidence and provide such positive feedback to such a young member of staff shows the true impact of these awards. It is safe to say that his students are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated module leader.”
This was the nomination that made it clear Christopher deserved to be shortlisted:
“Chris has always made me feel welcomed to the lectures and has given me the confidence to respond to any questions in the lecture and has given me extra support when I have been lacking in the module. He has also helped in modules that are beyond what they are teaching and provided that extra curriculum help when necessary.”
For more information about the awards, see the Anglia Ruskin website. You can learn more about Christopher and the modules he teaches at Anglia Ruskin online.