Jenna Lowe, Laboratory Sustainability Officer at the University of Liverpool, has been shortlisted in the Times Higher Education Awards’ Outstanding Technician of the Year category.
Widely known as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the awards attract hundreds of entries from across the UK and Ireland and exemplify the talent, drive and dedication of individuals and teams across all aspects of university activity.
Jenna manages the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), the University’s sustainability standard for laboratories. Using her technical knowledge, skills and experience, Jenna influences the whole University to become more sustainable in laboratory and technical areas. She has been nominated for her passion and commitment to the role, demonstrating perfectly how technical skills can be transferable to a career path in sustainability, a vital and growing area.
Commenting on her nomination, Jenna said: “I’m delighted to be shortlisted for such a prestigious award. I have always been passionate about sustainability and having worked in labs for my whole career I have always been conscious of how wasteful they can be”.
“My journey from the bench to laboratory sustainability has enabled me to apply my skills and knowledge to help and support laboratories across our campuses to become more sustainable in their day-to-day activities. I’m tremendously grateful for the support I’ve received from my colleagues. There are so many opportunities for technicians to grow and develop their careers, and I encourage others to explore these options.”
Jenna is based within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences’ Technology, Infrastructure and Environment Directorate and is a key member of the University’s Sustainability Team, working with multiple teams across the organisation.
Jan Brett, Faculty Strategic Technical Lead said: “Jenna’s work towards delivering lab sustainability is a key component of our target to reach net zero by 2035 and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Jenna has embraced what is a new role and has been pivotal in driving cultural change at Liverpool.”
Sally Shaw, University Head of Sustainability Programmes said: “Jenna is a shining example of a technician working beyond her scope of responsibility to drive forward meaningful change within the higher education sector. I am delighted that she is being recognised for her role in disseminating good practice within and beyond the organisation.”
Winners of the 20th annual Times Higher Education Awards will be announced at a ceremony on 28th November in Birmingham.