18 Jun 07

Three Oxford University figures have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours list, announced on Saturday 16 June.

Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell has been awarded a DBE for services to science, Dr Dieter Helm has been awarded a CBE for services to energy policy and Mrs Margaret Scully has been awarded an MBE for services to higher education.

Professor Bell Burnell, Visiting Professor of Astrophysics at Oxford University and a Fellow of Mansfield College, is best known for her involvement in the discovery of pulsars, which opened up a whole new branch of astrophysics, and her tireless work to encourage more women to consider a career in science. Her career highlights include 10 years as Professor of Physics at the Open University, managing the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope in Hawaii, and a spell as President of the Royal Astronomical Society. She was made a CBE in 1999.

'This honour gives me great pleasure, it is great to see scientific endeavour being recognised,' said Professor Bell Burnell. She thanked the University, Mansfield College and her colleagues and former colleagues for their support. Professor Roger Davies, Chairman of Physics at Oxford University, said: 'This is great news and well-deserved recognition for Professor Bell Burnell. Not only has she pressed forward the forefront of astrophysics, but she has led the way for women in science with great success. Jocelyn has inspired many young people through her outstanding work in engaging the public in science. It is tremendous to have her in the department.'

Dr Dieter Helm, Official Fellow in Economics at New College, is a Research Associate of the Institute for Fiscal Studies and Associate Editor of the Oxford Review of Economic Policy. Dr Helm is a member of the DTI's Energy Advisory Panel and is Chairman of the DETR's Academic Panel. He is a Director of Oxford Economic Research Associates Ltd and has also presented UK Plc, a BBC Radio 4 series.

Mrs Margaret Scully, scout and housekeeper at Corpus Christi College, has worked at the college for over 40 years. In her early days she looked after one of the college houses and, with her husband, took care of the many students who lodged there. She now works as a scout in and around the college and, in her spare time, is involved in charity work.