Local young physicists best in Britain - Burstow and Brake

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 16th Nov 2005

Two local physicists were invited to join a gathering of some of the UK's best young scientists at Westminster to present their innovative research work to Members of Parliament.

Louise Coutts and Eleni Nioutsikou both work at the Institute of Cancer Research in Sutton and were selected from a large number of applicants to explain their work into improving the treatment of cancer. Louise's work consists of a ground-breaking approach in detecting cancerous tissue, whilst Eleni is pioneering improvements in radiological treatment

Marking 2005 as the International Year of Physics and the United Kingdom's Einstein Year, the presentations were organised by the group Younger Scientists, Engineers and Technologists for Britain, as part of efforts to highlight the importance of physics to the modern world.

Local Liberal Democrat MPs Tom Brake and Paul Burstow, both present at the highly prestigious award ceremony, were delighted with the accolades Louise and Eleni received.

Tom Brake, MP for Carshalton and Wallington, and himself a physics graduate said:

"Physics plays a vital role in the modern world and contributes greatly to our quality of life. Both these women deserve all the plaudits they have received for their continuing efforts. Its inspiring to know that such important research is being conducted in the local area."

MP for Sutton and Cheam, Paul Burstow added:

"I warmly congratulate both Louise and Eleni on their success, and indeed for their pioneering research in improving cancer treatments. As well as highlighting the undoubted importance of physics, that their investigations have been so eminently recognised will contribute significantly to the progression of oncology research in this country, which I trust will be of great benefit to thousands of cancer patients and their families in the UK and beyond."

ENDS