During a visit to the STEM for Britain Exhibition in Parliament, local MP, David Rutley, met Poynton resident Kevin Tree, who has demonstrated a clear personal commitment to lifelong learning throughout his career. Having served as a police officer for 13 years, Mr Tree is now a postgraduate researcher in the Nuclear Physics group at the University of Liverpool leading to a PhD Doctorate degree.
The STEM for Britain Exhibition, which was organised by the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, helps raise the profile of Britain's early-stage researchers by engaging Members of Parliament with current science, engineering and mathematics research being undertaken in the UK, especially the work being undertaken by their local constituents. This year’s event was held in Portcullis House in Parliament and Mr Tree was invited to attend following a competitive application process.
Mr Tree is 57 years old and married with six children and six grandchildren. After leaving college he worked initially for Lloyds Bank, before following a career as a police officer with Surrey Constabulary. He was not deterred by a motorcycle accident whilst on duty, which caused to him to take early retirement, and took the opportunity to learn more about astronomy, which he had been interested in from an early age, through the Open University.
Following the completion of several modules with the Open University and the successful completion of the Institute of Mathematics’ Access to Mathematics course, Mr Tree had sufficient UCAS points to apply for entry onto an Astrophysics degree at a local university, which led to his study of Physics with Astronomy at the Liverpool University in 2011. With the support and encouragement of his wife and family, Mr Tree graduated with a First Class BSc (Honors) degree in 2014, and during his final semester he successfully applied for a PhD position in the Nuclear Imaging Group at Liverpool University.
Mr Tree started his PhD in September 2014 and aims to finish his doctorate in 2018. His research focuses on the development of computer algorithms, which will be used initially to improve the performance of the detectors used for the characterisation of radioactive waste.
David said: “I was pleased to have the opportunity to meet Kevin and hear more about his important research. I am sure that his impressive approach to lifelong learning will inspire others to want to achieve their full potential in their academic studies and throughout their careers. I wish Kevin continued success for the remainder of his studies.”