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Kingston University analytical scientist Dr James Barker presented with exceptional service award from Royal Society of Chemistry

Analytical scientist Dr James Barker during filming for Channel 4's Fatberg Autopsy: Secrets of the Sewers

An expert in analytical and forensic science from Kingston University has received the Royal Society of Chemistry's exceptional service award for his outstanding contribution to proactively and inclusively supporting his colleagues and the wider scientific community.

Dr James Barker, from the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing, has been involved with the Royal Society of Chemistry for more than 20 years, and is currently vice chair of its registration committee, assessor of science teaching and in-house training schemes, and an analytical chemistry branch assessor.

He was nominated by his peers for the award, which recognises and celebrates those members who have made a positive impact by contributing through a variety of volunteer positions or over a sustained period of time.

After receiving the award, associate professor and reader in analytical science Dr Barker spoke of how being part of a team that assesses degree programmes for accreditation across the globe had helped inform his own work at the University. "My work has been considerably facilitated by the professional and dedicated staff at the Royal Society of Chemistry and fellow committee members, without whom my job would have been a whole lot more difficult," Dr Barker said. "I have always enjoyed reading through the diversity of chemical degree courses that I have been asked to assess for accreditation. I have been inspired by many and used their ideas to expand my own teaching, learning and assessment practice."

Dr Barker said the Royal Society of Chemistry played an important role supporting and developing people working in the chemical sciences and those who aspire through the academic and technical routes of education, as well as directing and regulating chemical sciences degree courses throughout the UK and internationally.

"I am very pleased to be able to make a difference and help shape the future through my work with the Royal Society of Chemistry and other bodies in the scientific and technical fields," he added.

Dr Helen Pain, acting chief executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry said: "We live in an era of tremendous global challenges, with the need for science recognised now more so than ever. It's incredibly important to recognise those who are making significant contributions behind the scenes towards improving the world we live in as well as inspiring colleagues within the chemical sciences community to do what they can for the people around them.

"This award is about celebrating the efforts of the unsung heroes who go above and beyond to support their colleagues and our wider community. It is for this reason we are proud to be presenting this award to Dr Barker for his outstanding service to the Royal Society of Chemistry through supporting and developing professional development activities for our community, and taking an active role in our governance committees."

• Read more about the awards on the Royal Society of Chemistry website.
• Find out more about undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing.