The University of Aberdeen has been shortlisted for two prestigious Herald Higher Education Awards 2026, further recognising its leadership in interdisciplinary research excellence and widening access to education.
The University is a finalist in both the Research Project of the Year and Widening Access categories, following the successful nominations of two flagship initiatives: the Just Transition Lab and Gateway to Medicine.
The University’s Just Transition Lab (JTL) has been shortlisted in the Research Project of the Year category. One of the UK’s leading academic centres in its field, the JTL plays a key role in positioning Aberdeen as a global hub for just transition policy and practice.
Drawing on interdisciplinary expertise from across Business, Engineering, Geosciences, Law and Social Sciences, the Lab reinforces the University’s leadership in energy, sustainability and societal research and policy in Scotland and internationally. Its work directly contributes to the University’s 2040 strategic priorities, from regional engagement to tackling global challenges linked to energy transition, climate change and social justice.
The Gateway to Medicine (G2M) programme has been shortlisted in the Widening Access category. Established in 2017, G2M is a unique partnership between the University of Aberdeen and North East Scotland College (NESCOL), with support from NHS Grampian.
The programme sits at the heart of the University’s long‑standing commitment to widening access, inclusion and social responsibility. By providing a supported pathway into medicine, G2M helps address longstanding barriers to entry and increases representation in a high‑demand profession, creating meaningful opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
Commenting on the shortlisting, Dr Heather May Morgan, Vice-Principal - Regional Engagement & Innovation, said: “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.
“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 highlight the vital role that education plays in supporting economic, social and community development.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Wednesday, 20 May, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow.