Professor Jones, Chair of Pharmaceutical and Biomaterial Engineering at the School of Pharmacy, received the prestigious accolade in recognition of his groundbreaking work developing new ways to deliver medicines more effectively and safely. His innovations include drug-releasing implants, eye treatments for sight-threatening diseases, and coatings for medical devices that help prevent infections.

The distinguished academic holds the unique distinction of being the only pharmacist elected to three national academies – the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Academy of Medical Sciences, and the Royal Irish Academy – testament to his exceptional reputation across scientific disciplines.

Professor Jones's research has yielded remarkable real-world impact, with over 70 commercialised products and devices improving patients' lives globally. He has also co-founded two successful companies, Xiomateria and Re-Vana Therapeutics, which are bringing these innovative products to market.

Professor David Jones delivered his Hanbury Medal Award Lecture at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in November 2025.

Beyond his research achievements, Professor Jones has demonstrated unwavering commitment to education and mentorship. He has redesigned pharmacy education programmes, supervised nearly 50 PhD students, and authored widely used textbooks in pharmaceutics and pharmaceutical statistics. Since 2000, he has also served as Editor of the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology.

In response to receiving the honour, Professor Jones said:

"I am both stunned and delighted to have been awarded the 2025 Hanbury Medal. Previous winners of this award have been both giants in and leaders of pharmacy and pharmaceutical research, and they have inspired me at various stages in my career. For me to join this list of winners is truly humbling."

The gold Hanbury Medal, awarded every five years by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, honours British botanist and pharmacologist Daniel Hanbury and recognises individuals with distinguished careers in pharmaceutical sciences.

Paul Bennett, RPS Chief Executive Officer, praised the award, stating:

"Recipients of this prestigious award have been recognised for their pioneering work and reflects the importance that the Society places on pharmaceutical science and research, disciplines which underpin the profession of pharmacy."

Professor Gavin Andrews, Head of the School of Pharmacy at Queen's, also comment on Professor Jones's achievement, stating:

"David's recognition with the Hanbury Medal represents the pinnacle of pharmaceutical science achievement and reflects the world-class research being conducted within our School. His exceptional contributions to drug delivery innovation and his dedication to educating the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists exemplify the excellence we strive for at Queen's. This prestigious award not only honours David's remarkable career but also highlights the School's position at the forefront of pharmaceutical research and innovation."

Amira Guirguis, Chair of the RPS Science and Research Committee, described Professor Jones as "a worthy winner" whose "pioneering research in pharmaceutical engineering and biomaterials has had a profound impact on both patient care and scientific advancement."

More information in relation to Professor Jones’ award is available via the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s website.

Professor David Jones

School of Pharmacy

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