42 Technology engineer takes top prize for research

Jon Spratley, one of 42 Technology’s consultant engineers, has been awarded the MediMaton prize by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for his pioneering PhD research aimed at improving the lives of patients suffering from motor neurone disease or with severe communication difficulties.

Dr Spratley was chosen as overall winner against two other finalists in the ‘best recent PhD thesis’ category; one of four categories in the 21st annual medical engineering student competition. His research focused on the development of an implantable microsensor that can read and wirelessly transmit brain signals to an external processing unit. The device is designed to help patients better control communications devices and other computer-controlled aids.

Jon was selected as overall winner by the judging panel, following a last round of presentations from all the finalists at IMechE’s headquarters in London. The photograph below shows him [on the right] receiving his certificate and a cheque for £750 from Dr Patrick Finlay, managing director of MediMaton, sponsors of the category.

Jon Spratley graduated with a first class degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Birmingham in 2004, before starting his research degree with the university’s Microsystems Research Group. He joined 42 Technology in November 2007 to work on consulting projects in medical devices and other complex product developments, while at the same time writing up his thesis which was submitted in 2008.