20 June 2006

Maths magic brings Wimberley Award for Niall

Making maths fun for schoolchildren has led to University of Dundee Mathematics PhD student Niall Dodds being named the winner of the 2006 Wimberley Award, given to a student who has made an extraordinary contribution to the life of the University.

Niall (25), from Forfar, earned the award for his general contributions to the Mathematics Division over the seven years he has been at Dundee and in particular for the work he has done in delivering Maths masterclasses to local primary schoolchildren under an initiative offered by the University in conjunction with the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

"I have really enjoyed working on the Masterclasses," said Niall. "It is great to see other young people enjoying maths and showing them how useful it can be. Maths is a real passion for me, so it is good whenever you are able to help people understand it and pass on that enthusiasm."

A former pupil of Forfar Academy, Niall has just completed his PhD and is now hoping to pursue a career in academia and research.

"I am delighted that Niall has gained this award," said Prof Alistair Watson, head of the Division of Mathematics. "Niall has been an outstanding student here, and this seems a fitting reward for his contributions across a whole range of mathematical and other activities".

The University of Dundee's Wimberley Award is presented annually to the student who has made the most distinguished contribution to University life. The award comes in the form of a medal which will be presented to Niall in September.

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