IMechE’s Tribology Bronze Medal 2023 Winners Announced

Normally one Tribology Bronze Medal is awarded each year. From time to time, an additional award is made when there is more than one worthy recipient.

In 2023 there was a notably high standard of candidates, demonstrating high achievement and a commitment to Tribology at an early career stage. Therefore, two Bronze medals have been awarded this year.

Kian Kun Yap and Sarah Crossland have been awarded the Institution’s Bronze Medal for Tribology.

Kian Kun Yap, with a background in Mechanical Precision Engineering and an MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering from prestigious institutions, embarked on a remarkable academic journey. His PhD research at Imperial College London delves into tribology, specifically focusing on in-situ tribometry and environment control for polymer transfer film characterization. His exceptional contributions have earned recognition and numerous awards at international conferences. Beyond his groundbreaking research, Yap is known for his exceptional teaching abilities, making complex subjects accessible to students. He has also been involved in tribology-focused COVID-19 research and is currently assisting fellow researchers in neurosurgery and cancer research, showcasing his adaptability and intellectual rigor. Yap is a well-deserving recipient of the Tribology Bronze Medal.

Read Kian Kun Yap’s full citation

Dr. Sarah Crossland is an accomplished researcher in the field of tribology, seamlessly blending her background in engineering and physics with her clinical expertise to pioneer innovative approaches. After obtaining a Master of Physics degree in 2015, she ventured into the realm of Prosthetics and Orthotics, earning a BSc in 2018 from the University of Salford while applying her physics knowledge to improve the mapping of skin surfaces and reduce the risk of skin issues related to medical devices. As a Prosthetist/Orthotist, she pursued her PhD at the University of Leeds, combining clinical practice with her tribology studies, ultimately developing novel methods for characterising strain in the skin on the plantar aspect of the foot as a surrogate measure for shear during gait, to predict diabetic foot ulcer risk. Her work has led to clinical applications and further research projects. She's received various awards and played an active role in teaching, outreach, and community projects, earning recognition for her contributions. Dr. Crossland currently serves as a lecturer in Medical Engineering at the University of Hull, where she continues her biotribology research and supports future engineers and scientists, making her a highly accomplished and committed tribologist. The 2023 Tribology Bronze Medal is a wonderful recognition of her early career success and commitment to tribology and engineering.

Read Sarah Crossland’s full citation

The institution would like to congratulate Kian Kun Yap and Sarah Crossland on winning the Tribology Bronze medal.