The company behind a groundbreaking project that allows for a faster detection of fuel fraud has been declared the ‘Most Innovative Business Process’ by an educational think-tank.
The University of Lincoln and fuel marking company DeCipher are partners in the project, which is combating fuel smugglers on a global scale.
The New Engineering Foundation (NEF): The Innovation Institute recognised DeCipher’s work on chemical markers with the new award at a special ceremony at the Institute of Directors on Wednesday 7 December.
It was presented to Dr Tim Wilkinson, of DeCipher, by Maggie Philbin, TeenTech CEO and BBC journalist, presenter and broadcaster at the NEF’s ‘Innovisions’ conference, in London.
Dr Wilkinson said: “Innovation is needed to fight organised crime and that innovation is often generated by universities. I am proud that in DeCipher we are successfully fighting crime based on our own and the University of Lincoln’s ingenuity. In DeCipher, we are also not resting and look forward to the next generation of technology to keep us ahead. In DeCipher we lead with our motto that as far as we are concerned ‘Crime will not Pay’.”
The core technology the system is based upon was developed and patented in the University’s forensic laboratories. It allows for hand-held, on-site testing of fuels making analysis quick, clear and decisive.
Revenue generated through the partnership has been used by the University to fund a joint venture into how the technology can be used in other areas, such as medical diagnostics and low-cost microbial agents.
Dr Mark Baron, from the University of Lincoln’s School of Life Sciences, said: “We are very proud to be associated with such a dynamic, innovative company as DeCipher. Not only is previous research developed at Lincoln being applied in a commercial setting but we are also collaborating with DeCipher to develop new exciting technologies for a rapidly changing competitive market. This provides a fantastic experience for the PhD students engaged in this work and shows that our research can have a significant impact on a global scale.”
The Innovation Awards were established this year to recognise and celebrate the very best in UK innovation. The awards provide an opportunity for individuals and organisations to celebrate their innovation and gain recognition for the role they play in inspiring and motivating others.
The winners in all eight categories were decided by a panel of industry experts, influencers and leaders including the award sponsors EMC, BASF: The Chemical Company and National Grid.
Describing the judging process Professor Sa’ad Medhat, CEO of the NEF, said: “The winners were chosen due to their clarity of intended purpose, uniqueness of approach, potential impact, and whether they stimulated and galvanised others. The winners will contribute to a culture of innovation which will help promote sustainable growth in the UK.”
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Marie Daniels – PR Officer
E-mail: mdaniels@lincoln.ac.uk
Telephone: 01522 886244