Congratulations to Professor Mike Shipston, recipient of the University of Edinburgh’s 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution — one of the University’s most prestigious internal honours. The Chancellor’s Awards recognise members of the University community who have made exceptional contributions to teaching, research, leadership and the wider life of the institution. Reflecting on the award, Professor Shipston described the recognition as “both humbling and deeply affirming,” emphasising that such honours belong to a community rather than an individual. “Those of us who have the privilege of working at the University of Edinburgh are, in many ways, only guardians for a short period of time. Our responsibility is to educate and support future generations and to pursue research that improves life for all.” A defining theme of Professor Shipston’s career has been the power of relationships. He credits mentors and colleagues at every stage for encouraging him to develop his own path and for supporting innovation within complex institutions. That same ethos underpins the Zhejiang University–University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJE), which this year celebrates its 10th anniversary. Looking at ZJE through that lens, Professor Shipston says he is most proud of the people and culture the partnership has built. Across education, research and translation, colleagues have taken genuine ownership — developing pragmatic and innovative solutions within a transnational, multidisciplinary environment. This collaborative spirit has enabled undergraduate and postgraduate students to flourish and to take confident first steps in their careers. For Professor Shipston, the greatest career highlights have always been seeing individuals grow — early-career researchers developing independence, colleagues driving meaningful change, and students experiencing the moment when complex ideas suddenly make sense. As ZJE enters its second decade, he reflects that enduring international partnerships require time, trust and mutual respect. “It is not about quick wins,” he notes, “but about building something lasting.”Above all, he remains proud of the community that has made both the award and the ZJE partnership possible. Further information Blog: A Community Effort: Professor Mike Shipston Reflects on receiving the Chancellor’s Award and 10 Years of ZJE Read the blog on LinkedIn Publication date 25 Feb, 2026
