Aston University Researcher Honored for Contributions to Naval Architecture
An Aston University researcher has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to naval architecture.
Dr Jean-Baptiste Souppez, a senior lecturer in engineering and technology, is the 2024 recipient of the Pyrgotelis Zoitos award which is given by the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA).
The prize, which recognises excellence in the advancement of marine technology and naval architecture, is sponsored by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute.
It is the third prestigious international honour Dr Souppez has received from RINA over the last two years, having previously received a Medal of Distinction and the Jeom Paik Prize.
Dr Souppez said: “I am incredibly grateful that my sustained passion and dedication to naval architecture and yacht design has been formally rewarded by the Royal Institution of Naval Architects and the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute.
“Excellence in research is a prerequisite for high impact, and it is therefore a great honour to be recognised for advancing the field of naval architecture.
“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, through championing teaching excellence and highly impactful research tackling contemporary challenges, from maritime decarbonisation to regulations ensuring the safety of lives at sea.”
Dr Souppez’ research spans from aerodynamics for racing yachts and wind assisted ships, to structural design and analysis, which feeds into his role as leader of multiple international ISO standards for yacht structures.
He is also an accreditor of university courses for the RINA, and is the Institution’s representative on the Engineering Council, the UK regulatory body for the profession.
Last year he received a national teaching fellowship in recognition of his outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in higher education.
Chris Boyd, RINA’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to Jean-Baptiste Souppez on being awarded the Pyrgotelis Zoitos Award.
“As chief executive of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, I am proud to see such innovative work being recognised and celebrated within our community. Jean-Baptiste is a testament to the talent and dedication of our members, and I look forward to seeing the impact of his research on the future of naval architecture and maritime engineering.
“I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute for sponsoring it. Their commitment to recognising and supporting outstanding research in naval architecture is truly commendable and plays a crucial role in advancing the field.”
The award, which is named after a renowned third century BC ship designer, was presented to Dr Souppez on 16 May at the Royal Institution of Naval Architects’ annual meeting in London.