One of the world's leading experts in the field of fuels and combustion will be returning to his alma mater, Leeds University, this week to be awarded a Doctor of Science degree, the highest award the University can confer.
Dr Clifford Jones, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen and a Reader from October 2005, has published five books and more than 230 articles on different aspects of combustion during an academic career spanning 27 years. A sixth book is due to be published later this year.
Dr Jones began his career in Sydney, Australia, and moved to Scotland in 1995. While living in Australia, he gained a reputation for his research into how bush and forest fires start and spread. Since working in Aberdeen he has focused on fire safety at offshore gas and oil rigs. In recent years he has also acted as consultant to a number of major chemical producers.
A former student at the University of Leeds, Dr Jones is looking forward to returning to the city tomorrow, July 15, to receive the award.
Speaking ahead of the graduation ceremony Dr Jones said: "Achieving this degree has been one of the primary aims of my academic career and I'm delighted to be returning to the place where I studied for my first degree to receive it."
The DSc can only be awarded to graduates of the University and members of academic staff. The candidate must have distinguished themselves by their original contribution to scholarship. Their contribution must also have been substantial, sustained and of a level which has led to international recognition.