28 June 2001

photo opportunity 3.30pm Thursday 12 July, Press Office stand, Caird Hall steps, Dundee.

Charlotte Manson (23) who has been the most hardworking student in uniting departments in the new School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee will be awarded the Wimberley Prize for her efforts as she graduates this year.

Charlotte recognised that the new school required students from the involved departments to get to know each other socially before they could work together productively. Charlotte expanded the Biochemistry Society to include students and staff from Anatomy and Physiology. The society has enjoyed a very successful initiation with many social and charity events including a slave auction and an end of year barbecue. Three seminars with high profile scientists such as Professor Nancy Rothwell from Manchester were held in the new School of Life Sciences.

Charlotte: "New integrated classes begin next session and will get off to a flying start because the ice has already been broken between staff and students from the old separate departments. I'm stunned by the award but it is a very nice surprise and it's lovely to graduate with an extra special honour."

Professor Birgit Lane, who ran Charlotte's degree course in Anatomical Sciences, said of the announcement: "University isn't only about work, but even the work is more fun when we know each other better. People like Charlotte make a huge difference to everyone, and we have a lot to thank her for."

CHARLOTTE WILL GRADUATE ON 12 JULY AT 2.15PM IN THE CAIRD HALL.