Dyson School of Design Engineering Announces 2026 PhD Award Recipients

Three PhD researchers have been recognised for exceptional doctoral research, including one Outstanding Thesis Award and two Impact Awards.

The Dyson School of Design Engineering (DSDE) has announced the recipients of its 2026 PhD Awards, recognising outstanding doctoral research that addresses important technological and societal challenges.

This year’s awards celebrate excellence across a diverse range of research areas: from the responsible development of artificial intelligence to sustainable manufacturing and advances in safety engineering. The awards recognise both the quality of doctoral research and its potential to deliver real-world impact. The work of this year’s recipients highlights the department’s strengths across multiple disciplines and reflects the breadth of research undertaken within the Dyson School of Design Engineering.

DSDE PhD Outstanding Thesis Award

Malak Sadek, “Designing Responsible AI: Integrating Human Values into AI Design”

Malak’s research explored how artificial intelligence can be designed to better reflect human values and societal needs. She developed practical frameworks that help researchers and technology developers incorporate ethical and human-centred principles into the design of AI systems, supporting the creation of more responsible and trustworthy technologies.

The panel was highly impressed by the originality, quality, and impact of Malak's research, which makes an important contribution to responsible AI by translating ethical principles into practical design methods. They also recognised her outstanding publication record and wider contributions to the Design Engineering community through leadership and outreach activities.

DSDE PhD Impact Award

Chunyi Gao, “Sustainable Manufacturing of Thermoplastic Fibre Metal Laminates”

Chunyi developed a new manufacturing process for producing lightweight composite materials used in transport and engineering. His research makes manufacturing more efficient and sustainable, reducing waste and energy use while creating a clear pathway for industrial adoption.

The panel recognised the exceptional real-world impact of Chunyi's work, which has already contributed to a patent; secured follow-on UKRI funding with industrial partners; and demonstrated strong potential to improve sustainable manufacturing in industry.

DSDE PhD Impact Award

Alasdair Mackay, “Improving Safety Standards for Military Aircrew Helmets”

Alasdair developed a new evidence-based method for testing military aircrew helmets that better reflects how traumatic brain injuries occur in real-life accidents. His work has the potential to improve overall helmet safety and ensure better protection for a wider range of users.

The panel was particularly impressed by the direct influence of Alasdair's research on policy and practice. His work has already informed revisions to the RAF Military Aircrew Helmet Impact Standard and is influencing helmet manufacturers and international stakeholders, demonstrating outstanding impact beyond academia.

Dr Talya Porat, Deputy Director of Postgraduate Studies, said: “Congratulations to all of this year's nominees and winners. It is inspiring to see the breadth and impact of the research being carried out by our PhD students, both within academia and beyond. We are delighted to launch the Design Engineering PhD Awards this year and look forward to making them an annual celebration of the outstanding contributions of our doctoral community.”

Dr Billy Wu, Director of Research, said: “From responsible AI through sustainable manufacturing to safety-critical standards, Malak, Chunyi and Alasdair have shown how rigorous research can create meaningful impact across technology, industry and society. Their work reflects the ambition and interdisciplinary spirit that define our research community. I am confident that they will continue to lead, inspire and make important contributions in their future careers.”

The formal presentation of the awards will take place at the Design Engineering Research Symposium on 28 October 2026.