Forensic trip wins award for student

Ryan Austin, 23, was one of the academic prize winners in a graduation ceremony at the University of Lincoln.

He won the Lincoln School of Life Sciences’ Prize for Best Overall Performance on the MSc Forensic Anthropology course.

As part of his studies, Ryan joined fellow postgraduate students and academics on a voluntary placement working with the Forensic Anthropology Foundation of Guatemala.

Ryan, who is a former pupil at Avon Valley School in Newbold and is now studying for a PhD at Lincoln, said: “One of the most enjoyable parts of the course was the opportunity to take part in an overseas placement in Guatemala.

“It proved to be a fantastic experience, giving a first-hand insight into the divergent demands of being a forensic anthropologist.

“It is something I will always remember.

“I chose the MSc course at the University of Lincoln because it offered a unique and diverse range of modules to work as a forensic anthropologist.

“The specialist curriculum involved modules such as human rights and disaster victim identification.”

Ryan was among some 750 undergraduates and postgraduate students from across the University of Lincoln’s three academic colleges who attended the graduation ceremony held at Lincoln Cathedral on Wednesday, January 20.

Professor Mary Stuart, vice-chancellor at the university, said: “Celebrating the achievements of so many of our students in the unparalleled setting of Lincoln Cathedral is a wonderful way to start 2016.

“Graduation is a time to recognise the years of hard work and dedication our students have undertaken, and to look forward to exciting times ahead.

“It is a privilege to share the occasion with the friends, family and tutors who have supported our students throughout their courses.”