Duo honoured for outstanding work in mechanical engineering

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has bestowed its prestigious ‘Best Student’ Award on Jack Fox and ‘Best Project’ on fellow student Mark McNulty.

Jack received the Frederick Barnes Waldron Award from the Institution, which is awarded each academic year to an undergraduate who is considered to have outperformed their peers. He achieved the highest marks as best overall fourth-year student in the BEng Hons Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering (Awarded with 1st Class).

The Institution also bestowed the ‘Best Project in 2023’ award upon Mark McNulty, whose remarkable achievement comes in recognition of his outstanding performance in the BEng (Hons) Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering programme. His winning project, titled "Designing and Manufacturing a 3D Printed Syringe Pump," stood out as a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field. The project, supervised by Dr Juanma Parrilla, showcased innovation and excellence in mechanical engineering.

The award, jointly organised by the Structural Technology and Materials Group of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the NAFEMS UK Steering Committee, serves to honour exceptional projects completed by undergraduate engineering students within this discipline.

The award focuses on projects involving engineering simulation techniques, including finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, and multibody dynamics. Mark’s project demonstrated not only creativity but also a deep understanding of these advanced engineering principles.

In recognition of his achievement, Mark will receive a substantial £1,000 prize.

Mark’s supervisor, Dr Juanma Parrilla, said: “This achievement serves as a testament to Glasgow Caledonian University's commitment to fostering talent and promoting groundbreaking research within the field of mechanical engineering. It is clear that Mark’s dedication and ingenuity will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the future of the industry.”

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has a rich history of celebrating innovation and excellence in engineering. Jack and Mark’s accolades add to this tradition, highlighting the bright future that awaits young engineers as they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of mechanical engineering.

Professor Babakalli Alkali, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering, said: “I really appreciate the remarkable academic performance by our students to be recognised with the prestigious institution awards for best overall student and best project. This achievement is because of the incredible work, support and commitment from the academic team in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.”