Professor Christofer Toumazou invented and commercialised “lab-on-a-chip” technology that can decode a patient’s DNA in under 30 minutes, enabling testing for genetic disease and drug intolerances on the spot.

The co-editor-in-chief of the IET’s Electronics Letters journal has also been responsible for developing cochlear implants for children born deaf and an artificial pancreas for type 1 diabetics and now holds more than 50 patents and employs over 350 people.

Despite leaving school with no A-Levels he has published more than 750 research papers, founded the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College and set up two successful medical device companies – Toumaz Technology and DNA Electronics.

William Webb, IET president, said: “The Institution of Engineering and Technology Achievement Awards recognise individuals who have made a truly outstanding contribution to engineering and technology, from talented young professionals through to engineers at the pinnacle of their careers.

“The IET is passionate about promoting engineering excellence and the Achievement Awards showcase some of the world’s best engineering talent. The winners should be extremely proud of their achievements.”



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