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Dstl fellow receives OBE honour for combatting chemical and biological weapons

Published on: 2 Jan 2018

One of the most respected figures at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has been recognised in the 2018 New Year’s Honours list.

Dr Cerys Rees has been made an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of her success in establishing a world-class facility for the analysis and identification of chemical and biological weapons for the defence and security of the UK.

She has led the development and delivery of this unique operational science and technology capability, ensuring accurate evidence has been provided to the highest levels of government.

The results of Dr Rees’s work have had a significant influence on diplomatic engagement by the UK government in its negotiations, most recently in Syria.

Reacting to the news of her OBE, Dr Rees said she was thrilled, but considered the award to be recognition for all the work carried out by the Dstl team to combat the use and development of chemical and biological weapons.

“It is an honour in every sense and I’m delighted to receive the award,” she commented.

“My family often wonder what I do when I’m called away for work, and this is a chance for them to be part of things.”

Dr Rees is a Dstl fellow - a leading technical expert - for chemical and biological analysis and attribution, with responsibility for the delivery of Dstl’s research and operational capability in this area in support of defence and security stakeholders in the UK.

A Dstl CBR senior scientific advisor, Dr Rees is trained to provide tactical and strategic level advice to UK police and military in support of operations.