Honorary Professor among recipients of royal honours
An honorary professor in our Department of Geography is one of several individuals associated with the University to be recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Professor Nicholas Veck (pictured), who works closely with University researchers in earth observation science, has been made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to environmental science.
He has worked in the space sector for over 30 years and is currently head of the chief executive officer’s office at the Satellite Applications Catapult. He previously worked in the space industry at Astrium and briefly at the British National Space Centre (BNSC).
After university research in X-ray astronomy and plasma physics, he worked for more than 20 years at Astrium Geo Information Services, responsible for the development in the UK of satellite earth observation related services.
Professor Veck said: “I’m very proud to have been nominated. I have always worked closely with the Natural Environment Research Council to help exploit and gain the greatest economic impact from their excellent Earth observation science. Through my work at the Satellite Applications Catapult, I’m pleased to do a little to help exploit that science and build economic impact in the UK.”
Professor Heiko Balzter from the Department of Geography said: “In his role of honorary visiting professor, Professor Veck has made an outstanding contribution to the University of Leicester over the years. I am deeply grateful for his engagement with academics and students here on a wide variety of topics. These include how satellite images can be used to improve disaster response and resilience, and the use of satellite data for forest monitoring."
Others associated with the University of Leicester who were named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list include former Bishop of Leicester the Right Reverend Timothy John Stevens who is an honorary graduate of the University and has received a CBE for services to the Church of England and the community in Leicestershire.
Steve White, who runs Aim Strong Sport and has worked with our Attenborough Arts Centre, has been given an MBE for voluntary services to education and sport.
Graduate and aviation enthusiast Roger Hopkinson has also been made an MBE for services to the UK's general aviation community.