NRI’s John Cooper was recognised for his exceptional contribution to health and safety during the second annual Health and Safety Day Celebration and Awards, organised by the University of Greenwich Health and Safety Services team. The event was held at the university’s Medway campus to align with the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April 2026.
The award celebrates staff who make a sustained and meaningful contribution to health and safety culture, practice and wellbeing, with nominations drawn from across the university’s faculties and professional services.
John, who joined NRI in September 2024 as Laboratory Coordinator for the Chemical Ecology Research Group, was nominated for his leadership and commitment during a period of significant laboratory and operational change at NRI.
This recognition also highlights John’s collaborative and methodical approach and his role in embedding strong day-to-day safety practices across research teams.
Over the past year, he has played a central role in supporting laboratory safety and chemical management, including during major laboratory audits and the reorganisation of institute-wide chemical management systems. His work included leading the rationalisation of chemicals and updating the institute’s chemical database, providing a professional model for an imminent migration to cloud-based laboratory and chemical inventory management. He also supported the development and review of risk assessments and standard operating procedures and oversaw improvements to health and safety infrastructure, including alarm systems, gas regulators and servicing arrangements.
These improvements have helped strengthen the safety, reliability and day-to-day functioning of laboratories and research environments across the institute.
Michelle Owusua Appiah Agyekum, the University Health and Safety Advisor, said: ‘This recognition acknowledges John’s outstanding contribution to health and safety during a period of major transition, and the lasting positive impact of his work on safety, wellbeing and research productivity at NRI.’
In addition to the nomination, John’s contribution was further recognised during the event with an Associate Director’s Award. The award was presented by the university’s Associate Director of Health and Safety, Vikki Wood, in acknowledgement of John’s exceptional support and leadership.
John said: ‘This recognition reflects a real team effort. Over the past year, many colleagues across NRI have worked together to strengthen our safety systems and practices, and it has been rewarding to help support that progress.’