FMS Facility Manager nominated for prestigious national award
September 17 2026
Dr Saimir Luli, Manager of the Pre-clinical In Vivo Imaging (PIVI) Facility, has been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education (THE) Outstanding Technician of the Year Award.
Often described as the "Oscars of Higher Education", the THE Awards celebrate the people and achievements across the UK university sector.
Saimir is one of just eight technicians from across the country to be nominated for this year’s Outstanding Technician of the Year award, with the winners set to be announced at a ceremony in Birmingham on 26 November.
For colleagues at Newcastle, the nomination comes as little surprise. Over recent years, Saimir has transformed the PIVI Facility, expanding its capabilities and ensuring researchers have access to cutting-edge imaging technologies.
Combining technical excellence with strategic leadership, Luli has significantly enhanced research infrastructure and collaboration at Newcastle University."
A major highlight has been securing £1.3 million in external funding as lead applicant over the past two years, helping to bring two new pre-clinical imaging systems to the University, while also supporting research projects and a shared PhD studentship.
The benefits of that investment are already being seen across a range of research areas, including cancer and tissue fibrosis. The new equipment has strengthened collaborations, opened up new research opportunities and helped scientists generate the high-quality preliminary data needed to secure future funding.
Saimir’s impact extends well beyond the imaging facility. In his role as co-lead of the Innovation, Methodology and Application (IMA) research theme, he spearheaded the launch of the Special Interest Group (SIGs) initiative, which has grown rapidly and now includes 14 groups that bring technical and academic colleagues together to share expertise and build collaborations. He also founded the regional ImagiNE network and is helping to develop a national community for pre-clinical imaging professionals.
To be shortlisted, recognises not only Saimir’s technical excellence, but also his leadership, vision and commitment to supporting others. Please join us to support Saimir and wish him the very best for the awards in November.