International alumni shortlisted for award
A Leeds student has been shortlisted in the British Council 2023 Study UK Alumni Awards.
Melvin Sanicas studied Patient Safety and Clinical Risk Management at the School of Medicine in 2010. He was a finalist in the category of the Science and Sustainability category. Melvin was recognised for his study of the control of infectious diseases and his impact on the field of vaccinology and global health.
The awards recognise leaders in their fields who have used their experience of studying at a UK university to make a positive contribution to their communities, industries and countries.
- Melvin's study showed that a 2-dose HPV vaccination schedule is cost-effective.
- This led to Southeast Asia adopting a school-based vaccination program to protect girls from cervical cancer.
- Melvin launched the Collaboration for Tuberculosis (TB) Vaccine Discovery, a global network to develop new TB vaccines.
- His publication on live TB vaccines helped develop whole-cell TB vaccines.
- He ensured that quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIV) are available to children 6 months of age and older, protecting them from influenza each year.
- He was one of the top 100 scientific influencers globally on Covid-19.
“Melvin’s work has helped to protect millions of people around the world and this nomination reflects his influence in the global scientific community,” commented Dr Piruthivi Sukumar, Pro-Dean – International, Faculty of Medicine and Health.
“That he has been recognised as one of 28 global finalists in this year’s British Council awards is a fantastic achievement.”
