Announcing our latest Alumni Achievement Awards winners
Congratulations to James Battensby (BSc Biochemistry, MSc Environmental Engineering, 2002), Jing Sun ((MA in Media and Public Relations, 2014) and Dr Harry Patria (PhD Data Science, 2022) who are the first winners of the year.
4 February 2025
Congratulations to James Battensby (BSc Biochemistry, MSc Environmental Engineering, 2002), Jing Sun ((MA in Media and Public Relations, 2014) and Dr Harry Patria (PhD Data Science, 2022) who are the first winners of the year.
Nominations are now open for our next round of awards. If you know a graduate who deserves recognition, celebrate their outstanding accomplishments by nominating them or yourself today.
James Battensby, Senior Technology and Innovation Manager for Offshore Wind at BP, has dedicated his career to advancing renewable energy and sustainability. Inspired by his upbringing in Walker, Newcastle, and his father’s work in Wallsend’s shipyards, he is focused on revitalising the North East through green innovation.
James has driven significant advancements in offshore wind technologies. These projects have connected global companies like EdF Energy, Equinor, and RWE while supporting regional supply chains and green start-ups.
James has managed multi-million-pound projects in offshore wind and low-carbon technologies, both at BP and the UK’s Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult (OREC). His efforts in lobbying for the UK-US offshore wind NOWRDC (national offshore wind research) research and innovation program have fostered collaboration on sensor technologies and digital twin systems. Additionally, he played a key role in establishing OREC’s Chinese operations.
A Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) and Member of the Energy Institute (MEI), James combines technical expertise with practical sustainability solutions. His work with Innovate UK has further promoted green innovation and economic development in the North East.
James continues to be a driving force in regional revitalisation and global green innovation, inspiring future leaders in renewable energy.
Outstanding Social and Civic Contribution - Jing Sun (MA in Media and Public Relations, 2014)
Jing Sun has worked full-time in the philanthropic sector in China for over eight years, supporting organisations such as WWF (Worldwide Fund for Nature), Shenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation, and the Ruipeng Foundation which focuses on animal welfare. Her expertise in governance, operations, and strategic planning has consistently driven impactful initiatives in environmental protection and animal welfare.
Jing has played a pivotal role in advancing ESG (environmental, social, and governance) frameworks in China. She has led international environmental protection projects, improved animal protection regulations, and developed systems for sustainable development. Her efforts have transformed how NGOs (non-governmental organisations) are perceived, elevating their role in societal progress.
She volunteers as the head of the Shenzhen office of A Better Community, a social enterprise providing consulting services to NPOs (non-profit organisations). Jing is also a partner at Impact Hub Shenzhen, which fosters entrepreneurial communities for positive environmental and societal change through local hubs, corporate innovation, and partnerships supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Jing has spearheaded projects like the Homeless Cats TNR Project, which engaged over 100 pet hospitals and secured long-term donors, fostering a more pet-friendly community. Her dedication has led to substantial donations for flagship species projects and initiatives.
Her work includes organising large-scale philanthropy events, such as the Climate Reality Camp in Shenzhen, featuring former U.S. Vice President Al Gore and attended by over 400 entrepreneurs. She has supported over 50 projects for more than 40 NGOs, offering consulting services and practical solutions to tackle social challenges.
Jing’s ongoing efforts to support social enterprises and develop methodologies for addressing social issues through sustainable business models continue to elevate the non-profit sector in China.
Rising Star - Dr Harry Patria (PhD Data Science, 2022)
Dr Harry Patria, founder and CEO of Patria & Co. and Strategi Transforma Infiniti, has shown remarkable leadership in data science, ethical AI, and business strategy. He has supported over 100 corporate clients with data-driven tools such as Infiniti AI, a data accessibility platform, and Just Hire AI, an inclusive recruitment platform designed to reduce bias in hiring practices.
Dr Patria’s academic achievements include over 40 peer-reviewed publications and 120+ citations. He has mentored over 2,000 Master’s students across Indonesian universities, focusing on ethical AI practices and transparent machine learning.
Additionally, he has contributed to government frameworks for responsible AI and data privacy in the UK and Indonesia, working to ensure transparency and accountability in AI usage. Dr Patria’s platforms, Infiniti AI and Just Hire AI, exemplify his focus on inclusive, scalable technology. Infiniti AI improves data accessibility through automation, while Just Hire AI promotes fairness by assessing candidates on skills and fit rather than traditional metrics.
