Dr Gemma-Louise Davies, School of Chemistry, is recognised for her contribution to colloid and interface science.
The McBain Medal is awarded annually by the Joint Colloids Group, a collaboration between the Society of Chemical Industry (SCI) and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). It recognises early career researchers and technologists who have made a significant contribution to Colloid and Interface Science within 15 years of completing postgraduate study.
Dr Davies's interdisciplinary research focuses on the design of colloidal materials, with major contributions to the development of nanocomposites. Her work has delivered new insights into the fundamental structure–property relationships of colloidal MRI contrast agents, leading to the creation of exceptionally effective positive and negative MRI colloids. Building on this foundation, she has advanced biomedical applications by developing non-invasive techniques for monitoring drug delivery, enabling a new generation of guided therapies.
I am honoured to receive the McBain Medal. I would like to express my gratitude to my research team, past and present, as well as wonderful collaborators and colleagues, without whom, none of this research would have been possible.
Her research also addresses environmental concerns, uncovering key mechanisms of nanoparticle toxicity with implications for environmental safety and regulation.
Dr Gemma-Louise Davies said: "I am honoured to receive the McBain Medal. I would like to express my gratitude to my research team, past and present, as well as wonderful collaborators and colleagues, without whom, none of this research would have been possible."
The medal will be presented to Dr Davies at the McBain Medal symposium on Friday 30 January 2026 at the University of Birmingham, an event organised by SCI's Colloid & Surface Chemistry Group and RSC's Colloid & Interface Science Group.
Full details including registration for the event can be found on the SCI website.
Associate Professor of Nanomaterials
Staff profile for Gemma-Louise Davies, School of Chemsitry, University of Birmingham
