The University of Aberdeen has been shortlisted for two prestigious Herald Higher Education Awards 2026, recognising its leadership in interdisciplinary research and its long-standing commitment to widening access to education. The institution is a finalist in both the Research Project of the Year and Widening Access categories, with nominations highlighting the Just Transition Lab and the Gateway to Medicine programme.
One of the UK’s leading academic centres in its field, the Just Transition Lab (JTL) has been shortlisted for Research Project of the Year. The Lab brings together expertise from Business, Engineering, Geosciences, Law and Social Sciences, positioning Aberdeen as a global hub for just transition policy and practice. Its work underpins the University’s strengths in energy, sustainability and societal research, contributing directly to the Aberdeen 2040 strategic priorities, from regional engagement to tackling global challenges linked to energy transition, climate change and social justice.
Dr Heather May Morgan, Vice-Principal Regional Engagement & Innovation, said the Just Transition Lab exemplifies the University’s collaborative approach. “Being recognised in the Research Project of the Year category reflects the way colleagues across disciplines are working together to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our region and the wider world,” she said. “The Just Transition Lab is helping to position Aberdeen at the forefront of just transition policy and practice, with research that supports communities, informs decision-making and advances our Aberdeen 2040 ambitions.”
The Gateway to Medicine (G2M) programme, a partnership between the University of Aberdeen and North East Scotland College (NESCOL) supported by NHS Grampian, has been recognised in the Widening Access category. Established in 2017, the programme offers a supported pathway into medicine, helping to remove longstanding barriers to entry and increase representation in a high‑demand profession. Sitting at the heart of the University’s approach to widening access, inclusion and social responsibility, G2M is creating meaningful opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to pursue a medical career.
Dr Morgan said the shortlisting in Widening Access underlined the impact of the University’s inclusive ethos. “As we know, the Herald Higher Education Awards champion excellence across higher and further education, shining a spotlight not only on institutions but on the people and partnerships that are widening access and increasing education’s impact on business and communities,” she said. “Being recognised in two categories reflects the breadth and significance of the work taking place across the University, along with regional partners, and is testament to the hard work and commitment of the colleagues involved in both these initiatives.”
The Herald Higher Education Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across the sector and underline the vital role that education plays in supporting economic, social and community development. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Wednesday 20 May at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Glasgow.
