Dr Anne Cooke, facilitator for Bristol Neuroscience has won this year’s University of Bristol Engagement Award. Dr Cooke has pioneered engagement in the neuroscience community, establishing an annual week of engagement activities for Brain Awareness Week, running numerous schools activities and ensuring that Bristol Neuroscience takes every opportunity to be part of engagement projects.

Mr Giles Clarke, Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers, said: “We are very pleased to be sponsoring this award. The University’s public engagement work, from working with schools to sharing knowledge with new audiences aligns closely with the aims of the Society.  The quality of the applications were extremely high, and I am pleased that Dr Cooke’s remarkable and varied engagement achievements have been recognised.”

Professor Avril Waterman-Pearson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Chair of the Engaged University steering Group, said: “Our University recognises the importance of public engagement as part of academic life. Through this award we are able to reward and recognise role models, who are so important in motivating others. Anne’s personal commitment and enthusiasm for engaging a wide variety of people with neuroscience is exemplary, and is exactly the sort of activity we wish to celebrate.”  

The award, sponsored by the Society of Merchant Venturers, will be presented to Dr Anne Cooke at the University’s Enterprise Dinner on 28 June 2011.