Three outstanding early-career researchers have been honoured with the prestigious ISIS Springboard Awards, underlining the United Kingdom’s continued leadership in cutting-edge scientific research.
The awards, presented by the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source in Oxfordshire, one of the world’s most advanced scientific research facilities, have been granted to:
- Andrew McCluskey, University of Bristol
- Camilla Di Mino, University of Oxford
- Daniel Mayoh, University of Warwick
Launched in 2024, the Springboard Awards were created to nurture and encourage the next generation of British scientists to make use of neutron and muon techniques in their work — powerful tools that underpin breakthroughs in materials science, energy, medicine, and national technology development.
The three winners were selected following a highly competitive process that assessed scientific excellence, innovation, and potential impact.
Each award will run for three years and will provide recipients with funding to present their work at international conferences, produce a detailed case study of their research, and spend extended periods working directly at the ISIS facility — strengthening the UK’s research ecosystem.
Improving the power of neutron science — Andrew McCluskey
Andrew McCluskey, who leads the SCAMs@bristol group at the University of Bristol, is focused on enhancing how scientists interpret neutron-scattering data — a crucial method used to understand the structure and behaviour of materials at the atomic level.
His work combines mathematical techniques, computer simulations, and increasingly machine learning to extract more precise and meaningful information from experiments carried out at ISIS.
Speaking about his award, Mr McCluskey said:
“Alongside traditional research, I am keen on communicating the science that ISIS does as widely as possible.
The Springboard Award will enable me to establish new analysis approaches for neutron spectroscopy, helping other ISIS users maximise the information that they can obtain.”
Unlocking the secrets of liquids — Camilla Di Mino
At the University of Oxford, Dr Camilla Di Mino is investigating how molecules interact in liquids — research with implications for everything from energy storage to environmental science and industrial chemistry.
Using both total and inelastic neutron scattering alongside classical computer modelling, she seeks to unravel complex molecular behaviours that cannot be easily observed by other methods.
She described the award as pivotal to her career, saying:
“The Springboard Award will be a key step for establishing myself as a leader, towards my career goal of running a group in a leading UK university where neutrons play a central role.
This award will facilitate my ongoing work as an ambassador for neutron science in the UK and overseas.”
Building the materials of the future — Daniel Mayoh
At the University of Warwick, Dr Daniel Mayoh is growing and studying single crystals of advanced quantum materials — substances that could shape the next generation of computing, electronics, and energy technologies.
His research spans superconductors, magnetic materials, and exotic states of matter such as skyrmions and topological magnetic structures — areas at the very frontier of physics.
Reflecting on his award, Dr Mayoh said:
“The award will enable me to continue cultivating an international network of collaborators, supporting research at international central facilities.
I am eager to advocate for the importance of neutron and muon science.”
Investing in Britain’s scientific future
ISIS has welcomed its second cohort of Springboard Award recipients and has committed to supporting their work over the next three years.
The programme highlights the UK’s commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and global leadership in research — ensuring that Britain remains at the forefront of discovery, technology, and intellectual achievement.
