Surrey expert recognized on International Women in Engineering Day 

The Women’s Engineering Society has named the University of Surrey’s Dr Kelly Kousi as one of the finalists in its Top 50 Women in Engineering Awards (WE50) 2023: Safety and Security. The announcement coincides with International Women in Engineering Day 2023, a celebration of women in engineering. 

 Dr Kousi, a lecturer in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, leads a research group of scientists and engineers who work on emission control, synthetic fuel production with no waste, and production of chemicals that are crucial for health and transportation sectors, like methanol.    

Dr Kelly Kousi said: 

“My research revolves around making the air we breathe safer and the sky cleaner. Chemical engineering – and other types of engineering – are an important part of the solution to the climate crisis, so they’re a great career choice for people who want to make a difference. 

“I’m so grateful for this recognition. Being celebrated and recognised is so important for everyone and I’m in such amazing company on this prestigious list.”   

In addition to her research, Dr Kousi actively supports other engineers, particularly women. She leads the University of Surrey Women in Engineering Working Group, arranging talks which advise academics at any career stage how to progress and manage work issues, and she is the Chief Editor and Website Manager of the Greek Women in STEM organisation, as well as part of their mentoring scheme and their scientific writing team. She works with schools in Greece and the UK to introduce students to STEM themes, has organised many events supporting underrepresented groups within engineering, and has been a part of many podcasts and outreach activities to be a role model and encourage students to choose careers in STEM.   

Professor Adrian Dobbs, Head of the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at the University of Surrey, said: 

“We’re so proud of Kelly, but not surprised she’s been recognised in these highly prestigious awards. She’s an impressive researcher tackling crucially important problems faced by the world, and she’s a role model to people – of any sex, not just women – across engineering. We’re delighted for her.”   

Founded by the Women’s Engineering Society in 2016, the WE50 awards is a UK event linked to International Women in Engineering Day (INWED). The annual celebration of women in engineering takes place on 23 June. 

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Notes to editors 

• Dr Kelly Kousi is available for interview upon request 

• For more information, please contact the University of Surrey’s press office via mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk