CUBRIC Director awarded MBE

The Director of the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), Professor Derek Jones, has been awarded an MBE for services to medical imaging and the promotion of science engagement.

Derek joined Cardiff University in 2006 and has since led CUBRIC to become one of the world’s leading facilities for brain imaging. Over this period, CUBRIC has undergone major growth and development, and in 2016 the new £44 million centre was opened by The Queen.

The main aim of CUBRIC is not only to unravel the secrets of the human brain using a combination of powerful neuroimaging devices, but to also engage the public through a range of events and activities to generate curiosity. Derek has been at the forefront of the research, teaching and engagement at the centre since arriving in 2006 and has worked tirelessly to promote the core values of both the centre and University.

Derek, who discovered he had been nominated for the MBE whilst away in Australia, was truly honoured to make this year’s New Year’s Honours list.

He said: “Receiving such recognition for my work from one of the highest accolades is a tremendous honour for me. However, this would not have been possible without the support from my colleagues - particularly PhD students, Postdoctoral Staff, Academic Staff and Support Staff, who have been instrumental in my personal career progression. Neuroimaging is a huge team effort, and CUBRIC has been a fantastic opportunity populated by many brilliant people, so I feel that I am accepting the MBE on behalf of all of CUBRIC."

Derek’s research focuses on maximising the amount of quantitative information that can be extracted about brain structure non-invasively using magnetic resonance imaging techniques and he has published a wide range of fascinating research papers on the topic.

Head of School, Professor Petroc Sumner, commended Derek on his MBE saying: “Derek’s MBE is thoroughly deserved. His work has been pivotal in the success of CUBRIC and I am greatly impressed by the dedication and achievements that lie behind such honours.”

View the full list of New Year Honours for 2019.