Individual Award: Nigel Byng, Research Finance at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Dedicated and exceptional research support staff have been celebrated in the inaugural Oxford Joint Research Office (JRO) Staff Recognition Awards.
The awards were created to highlight the importance of the unsung heroes in research support whose tireless efforts help make health research happen across Oxford’s NHS and academic research partners.
Nominated by colleagues, the winners were recognised for their professionalism, collaboration and commitment to supporting Oxford’s health research community. More than 40 nominations were received, highlighting the expertise and impact of JRO teams across the city.
The awards were presented at the Oxford JRO Away Day, which was convened by the Oxford Academic Health Partners. This brought together more than 100 research support and delivery staff to explore opportunities to strengthen collaboration, improve research support processes and share the expertise that helps deliver Oxford’s world-leading research. The day’s discussions will inform recommendations from the JRO transformation project, which is working to improve how Oxford’s research services and support teams work together to rapidly set up new clinical studies.
The six winners of the JRO Staff Recognition Awards are:
Individual Award: Nigel Byng, Research Finance at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Through his approachable, pragmatic and supportive style, Nigel helps researchers navigate complex funding arrangements, demystifies finance, and consistently enables successful research delivery. The award was made in recognition of his many years of outstanding service supporting research finance at OUH and the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre.
Team award: Research Radiation Assurance Team, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Despite significant staffing challenges, the team redesigned and implemented a new assurance process, reducing application turnaround times to under 60 days. Their high-quality service supports research delivery across OUH and is regarded as a benchmark by peers. The award is in recognition of their resilience, innovation and dedication.
Foteini Mavromamati, Oxford Brookes University
Balancing multiple roles across Oxford Brookes University, the University of Oxford, and Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Foteini “has so many hats that she could camouflage a hatstand!”. While nearing completion of her PhD, she supports vital paediatric research projects and clinical governance work, consistently bringing positivity, enthusiasm, and teamwork. She is recognised for her exceptional dedication to her work.
Eleanor Salmon, Research Contracts Specialist at the University of Oxford
Eleanor took over her role during a challenging period, strengthening engagement with research institutes and improving processes.She ensured a seamless handover, maintaining strong partnerships and consistent excellence. The award is in recognition of her exceptional support to researchers and outstanding relationship-building.
Lucas McKeown, Research Informatics Manager at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Lucas is known for his collaborative, solution-focused approach, through which he helps teams navigate complex requirements, improves research processes, and balances compliance with a positive researcher experience.He consistently exceeds expectations and delivers lasting impact. The award is in recognition for exceptional commitment to supporting researchers and strengthening information governance across OUH and its research partners.
Sadia Ahmad, Senior Costings Officer, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sadia is an outstanding role model who consistently supports colleagues and research delivery at OUH. As a highly trusted Costing Officer, she provides expert guidance, clear communication and dependable support under pressure, while fostering positive relationships and a welcoming, collaborative workplace. The award is in recognition of her professionalism, positivity and dedication.