Leading health and safety scientist to be honoured at graduation ceremony

A scientist with a distinguished career in health and safety, who led a major study into the transmission of Covid-19, will receive an honorary degree from the University of Derby.

Professor Andrew Curran CBE, Director of Science and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), will become an Honorary Doctor of the University at its awards ceremony in Buxton on 28 June. 

The HSE regulates workplace health and safety in Great Britain. 

Professor Curran, who is based at the HSE’s science and research centre in Buxton, has worked for the organisation for 32 years and has led crucial research into protecting people’s health and safety at work, from occupational diseases to reducing carbon emissions and exposure to harmful substances.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, as a Government Chief Scientific Adviser, he headed up the largest study in the world to better understand the transmission of the virus. He was recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List 2023 with a CBE for Public Service. 

Professor Curran will receive his award alongside hundreds of University of Derby graduates at the ceremony at the Buxton Campus in the Devonshire Dome.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, said:

“Our awards ceremonies are one of the highlights of the University calendar, an opportunity to celebrate our graduates’ successes and share their hopes for the future. I am delighted that this year we will also be recognising Professor Curran’s outstanding achievements in scientific research and his contribution to public service.”

Find out more about the Buxton Awards Ceremonies.