Professor Maxie Rößler named 2026 Blavatnik Awards Laureate

Professor Maxie Roessler, from Imperial’s Department of Chemistry, has been named a Laureate of the 2026 Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the United Kingdom, one of the most competitive and prestigious awards available for early-career researchers in the UK.

The Blavatnik Awards recognise transformative scientific advancements across outstanding research achievements by UK scientists across Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences & Engineering.

This year’s Laureates were announced at a gala ceremony in London, where each award winner received an unrestricted £100,000 prize in recognition of work that is already reshaping scientific understanding and driving new technologies. The event, hosted by Professor Deborah Prentice, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, brought together leaders across science and industry.

Professor Roessler, whose research focuses on spectroscopy and electron transfer in complex biological systems, is recognised this year for pioneering work that tackles one of the most fundamental questions in chemistry and biology: how do cells use highly reactive electrons to power essential processes? Energy production, photosynthesis and even cellular ageing all depend on incredibly fast electron transfers that have traditionally been very challenging to study. Professor Roessler has developed new techniques using advanced electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to capture these almost invisible states.

Imperial President, Professor Hugh Brady said, “The Blavatnik Awards are a reminder of the importance of investing in ambitious, curiosity‑driven research. They bring together a community committed to advancing discovery and celebrating the achievements of outstanding early‑career scientists. It is inspiring to see discoveries recognised here that will contribute to progress across society.”

Her recognition also represents an important milestone for Imperial. The university now has more female Laureates than any other institution in the UK, with Professor Roessler becoming the third Laureate to receive this honour. This achievement highlights the depth of talent and leadership across

Speaking about the award and what this means for her, Professor Roessler said, “When I received the e-mail, I read it at least five times before I could believe the news. I truly felt humbled – and extraordinarily lucky to work with such an incredible team of researchers and collaborators who made the breakthroughs that I am being recognised for possible.

I am sure that this award will help to showcase the transformative potential and visibility of EPR spectroscopy – which is not even a technique that all chemistry undergraduates know about! It will no doubt help me with my scientific missions, and I hope that I can inspire the next generation of scientists.”

“Professor Maxie Roessler’s recognition as a Blavatnik Laureate reflects the originality and depth of her research. Her work on electron dynamics is advancing our understanding of fundamental processes that shape energy, materials and biological systems. It is a powerful example of how fundamental science at Imperial lays the groundwork for transformative impact.” - Professor Ryan Vice Provost (Research and Enterprise)

More information about the 2026 Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the United Kingdom is available on the programme’s website.