Four academics from the University of Bath’s Faculty of Engineering and Design have been named finalists in this year’s everywoman in Technology Awards 2026, marking a standout year of recognition for the university.
The shortlisting highlights Bath’s breadth of expertise across engineering disciplines, with finalists recognised for leadership, innovation and their commitment to advancing women in technology.
This year’s Bath finalists are Professor Linda Newnes, Dr Despina Moschou, Dr Hannah Leese, and, in the Male Agent of Change category, Professor Tim Ibell.
Now in their 16th year, the everywoman in Technology Awards are the UK’s longest-running programme celebrating exceptional female talent in the tech industry. The awards recognise individuals who are driving innovation and shaping the future of engineering and technology.
This year marks the first time that so many Bath academics have achieved finalist status, with finalists from all departments within the Faculty of Engineering and Design, highlighting a collective strength across engineering disciplines.
Linda Newnes, Professor of Cost Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, is a finalist in the Team Leader category. She leads two people-led centres: digitalisation and net zero, and serves as co-director of The Foundry: Centre for Digital Manufacturing and Design. Linda is passionate about bringing people together to tackle societal challenges, and her work demonstrates that fair, resilient, and sustained transformation is achieved through the principle that people power change.
Dr Despina Moschou, from the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, is shortlisted in Tech for Good for her pioneering lab‑on‑chip diagnostic devices, including the world’s fastest high-quality COVID-19 test. Her work miniaturises full-scale laboratory processes onto a single chip, enabling rapid and complete diagnosis of disease at the point of care.
Dr Hannah Leese, from the Department of Chemical Engineering, is a finalist in the Innovator category. Hannah develops accessible diagnostic technologies to support women’s and newborn healthcare, including pain-free microneedle tools for early infection monitoring. She also champions improving gender equality in engineering through leading departmental EDI initiatives and efforts to strengthen support and representation for women.
Professor Tim Ibell, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Design, is shortlisted for Male Agent of Change. He is recognised for his sustained work to champion, sponsor and support the progression of women in technology.
Professor Ibell said: “I’m absolutely delighted to see so many colleagues from across the faculty recognised this way. It’s fantastically well-deserved, and their achievements reflect the excellence we strive for in the faculty and support our drive towards a more equitable and inclusive community in which we can all thrive. I wish all our finalists the very best for the awards night.”
Winners of the everywoman in Technology Awards will be announced on 19 March at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel.
