MBE for Hull Doctor

Dr Williams, who's originally from Hull and now lives in Stockport has been in post at The Christie in Manchester for three years, and has long been engaged in encouraging would-be scientists, particularly the drive to improve the representation of women in all scientific fields.

Dr Williams was brought up in East Hull near East Park and attended Archbishop Thurstan School (now The Archbishop Sentamu Academy) and Wilberforce College.

In 2012 Dr Williams established Science Grrl, a grassroots national network to celebrate and support women in science. Today she acts as one of two directors of the not-for-profit group, overseeing a range of national activities, co-ordinating the website and organising regular events across the UK.

Dr Williams said:

"I’m delighted to have been nominated for this honour and am very pleased that diversity and inclusion in science has been recognised as a worthwhile goal, which has yet to be achieved, and still requires attention and effort. I am not alone in this endeavour and would like to thank all those who are working to ensure science really is for everyone."

The Chief Executive of The Christie Roger Spencer, said:

"This is a thoroughly well-deserved award for a passionate and dedicated medical physicist who has championed a wide range of important causes.

"Heather’s commitment to equality and diversity as well as the next generation of scientists is incredible and she has demonstrated throughout her career what a superb role model, important researcher and a voice for good she is in her chosen field. There is nobody more deserving of this accolade and we’re thrilled she has been recognised for her considerable achievements."