Preston psychologist becomes first Black Brit to be named in list of leading future global scientists

A Preston psychologist has been named in a list of 40 emerging scientists who are leading the future of science globally.

Lee Chambers, founder of Essentialise Workplace Wellbeing, was recognised by the renowned American institute, the National Academy of Sciences.

Chambers, whose business is based in Ribbleton Lane, was the only British scientist to receive this year’s Kavli Frontiers of Science Fellowship. He is also the first Black British scientist to become a Fellow.

Selected due to his ground-breaking work on the mental health impact of the pandemic, Chambers travelled to California to receive the Kavli Fellowship.

He joined scientists from eight different fields for the event, many of who are from distinguished US universities such as Harvard, Stanford, MIT and Princeton.

Lee Chambers on stage at the National Academy of Sciences — Lee is the first Black British scientist to become a US Kavli Fellow, and the only British scientist this year

The award is in its 33rd year, and is seen as the premiere accolade for distinguished young scientists. Since its inception, 18 awardees have gone on to become Nobel Prize winners, while many others are senior leaders in science internationally.

On becoming a Kavli Fellow, Chambers said: “I’ve worked extremely hard over the years to try and make a difference, but I never expected something like this as a young boy growing up in Lancashire.

“To be internationally recognised by a leading global scientific institute for my work is truly humbling, and to be representing the UK on the biggest of global stages is an honour.

“I’m excited to learn from my peers and be able to connect with the brightest talent in science.”