Honouring Professor Anne Neville's Legacy in Engineering

Professor Anne Neville, a trailblazing figure in tribology and surface engineering, left an indelible mark on the world of engineering before passing away in 2022. Her contributions to fields such as corrosion, lubrication, and wear have transformed our understanding of engineering interfaces and their applications. This article delves into her remarkable career, highlighting her achievements and the lasting impact she leaves on future generations of engineers.

Early Life and Education

Anne Neville was born on March 21, 1970, in Dumfries, Scotland. She developed an interest in maths and physics during her school years at Maxwelltown High School, which eventually led her to pursue engineering. Neville's entry into the field of engineering was somewhat accidental; she was drawn to a Rolls-Royce gas turbine picture in the University of Glasgow's prospectus, and her maths teacher, a mechanical engineer himself, inspired her to explore further[5]. She completed her First Class Honours BEng degree in 1992 and went on to receive her PhD in corrosion science/engineering in 1995 from the University of Glasgow[3][5].

Career Highlights

Professor Neville's professional journey began at Heriot-Watt University, where she started as a lecturer and quickly built a research team. By 2002, she had been promoted to Professor, and in 2003, she moved to the University of Leeds, becoming the Director of the Institute of Functional Surfaces (iFS)[3][4]. This institute was instrumental in advancing research in medical, oil and gas, and automotive sectors.

Some of her most notable achievements include:

• First to measure corrosion rates in hip joint simulators, which significantly contributed to addressing issues with metal-on-metal implants[2][4].
• Tribology and Corrosion: Neville's work emphasized the synergy between tribology and corrosion, leading to a deeper understanding of these processes[3][4].
• Awards and Honours: She was the first woman to receive both the Leverhulme Medal and the James Clayton Prize in 2016. She also became a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 2017 and was awarded an OBE for her contributions to engineering[1][3].

Legacy and Impact

Professor Neville's legacy extends far beyond her scientific achievements. She was an inspiration to countless students and colleagues, nurturing 129 PhD students throughout her career[1]. Her dedication to mentoring and her role as a female role model in a traditionally male-dominated field have been hailed as particularly impactful.

In recent years, tributes to her legacy continue:

• A lecture theatre at the University of Leeds has been named in her honour, celebrating her contributions to engineering science and education[1].
• She was recognized in the Ribbons sculpture in Leeds, highlighting women's achievements in the city[1].

Inspiring the Next Generation

Anne Neville's work in tribology and surface engineering serves as a benchmark for aspiring engineers. Her ability to connect theoretical research with practical applications has inspired numerous young researchers to explore these fields. Her influence is evident in the vast array of topics she covered, from surgical technologies to wind energy.

Personal and Professional Traits

Anne Neville was not only an accomplished engineer but also known for her humility, compassion, and sense of humour. These qualities endeared her to colleagues and students alike, making her a beloved figure in the academic community[2].

Continuing the Legacy

In the wake of her passing, Professor Neville's family, colleagues, and former students continue to celebrate her life and achievements. Her husband, Mark McKelvie, and daughter, Rachel, have been instrumental in ensuring her memory stays vibrant, acknowledging the permanent memorial at the University of Leeds as a testament to her enduring impact[1].

In conclusion, Professor Anne Neville leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of engineers and researchers. Her groundbreaking work in tribology and surface engineering, combined with her dedication to mentoring and her role as a female icon in engineering, cement her place as one of the most influential figures in her field.

Honoring Anne Neville Today

Today, as the engineering community continues to recognize and honor Professor Neville's contributions, her impact is felt across various sectors:

• Tribology and Surface Engineering: Her work in these areas has set standards for innovative research and practical applications.
• Education and Mentorship: Her role as a mentor and educator has inspired countless students to pursue careers in engineering.
• Diversity and Inclusion: As a female role model in engineering, she has shown that success in this field is achievable for women, paving the way for future generations.

As the world moves forward with advancements in technology and engineering, Professor Anne Neville's legacy will remain a guiding light, pushing boundaries in fields like corrosion, lubrication, and wear, and inspiring young minds to follow in her footsteps.

---