Professor Ifan Stephens wins 2026 Sir John Meurig Thomas Medal

Professor Ifan Stephens from the Department of Materials at Imperial College London has won the 2026 Sir John Meurig Thomas Medal, one of the UK’s top honours for scientists working in catalysis and related fields.

The Sir John Meurig Thomas Medal recognises outstanding achievement in catalytic science and honours the legacy of Sir John Meurig Thomas, a pioneering chemist whose work shaped modern understanding of heterogeneous catalysis.

Professor Stephens’ research focuses on electrocatalytic approaches to sustainable fuels and chemicals, tackling some of the most pressing challenges in sustainable chemistry. His work addresses nitrogen reduction to ammonia, green hydrogen production, CO2 reduction and biomass valorisation.

“I am delighted to receive the Sir John Meurig Thomas Medal. John was not only a towering figure in catalysis, but also someone who took a genuine interest in early-career researchers. I was fortunate to have known him. Professor Ifan Stephens Professor in Electrochemistry, Department of Materials

Reflecting on the award, Professor Stephens said, “I am delighted to receive the Sir John Meurig Thomas Medal. John was not only a towering figure in catalysis, but also someone who took a genuine interest in early-career researchers. I was fortunate to have known him. Full credit for this work goes to my incredibly talented group members and collaborators; indeed, I am privileged to work with them”

He leads the Interfacial Electrochemistry Group at the Department of Materials, focused on enabling large-scale electrochemical conversion of renewable energy to fuels and valuable chemicals. The team combines advanced materials design and characterisation to study the interfaces between electrodes and electrolytes in devices such as electrolysers, fuel cells, and batteries, aiming to understand and improve the efficiency and stability of these processes.

The medal was formally presented at the UK Catalysis Conference 2026 on 7 January, where Professor Stephens delivered a plenary lecture. This award underscores Imperial’s continued leadership in materials science and catalysis research.

Professor Ifan Stephens delivering his plenary lecture at the UK Catalysis Conference 2026.