We are delighted to share the news that our long standing Emeritus Fellow Professor Jacques Heyman FREng has been awarded the Sir Frank Whittle Medal by the Royal Academy of Engineering in recognition of his outstanding career in structural design.  

A leading figure in structural engineering and authority on masonry construction, Professor Heyman has over his long and distinguished career advised on the safety and repair of numerous historical structural masterpieces, including many of the nation’s cathedrals. (If you climb the NorthWest tower of Ely Cathedral you will find an engraved plaque on the wall in recognition of his work there).

In its citation the Royal Academy of Engineering notes that:

‘From Gothic cathedrals to steel skyscrapers, Professor Heyman’s research has not only guided the design and repair of countless historic constructions around the world but paved the way for new low-carbon vaulted structures made from local materials, his work inspiring generations of structural engineers and others working in masonry and who seek to build modern structures with more efficient use of resources.’

It is especially pleasing to see Professor Heyman’s expertise honoured in this way, because the medal awarded to him is named after another distinguished Petrean engineer: Sir Frank Whittle studied Mechanical Sciences at Peterhouse 1934-36.

On behalf of everyone in College, we extend our warmest congratulations to Jacques on this well deserved honour.

Bridget Kendall

Master of Peterhouse

Further information can be found on the link:

http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/news/professor-jacques-heyman-freng-awarded-sir-frank-whittle-medal