SureScreen founder, Jim Campbell OBE, is to be awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Derby.
As a forensic scientist working on murders and arson as well as troubleshooting for engineering companies, he is regarded as a leading authority on drug and alcohol screening, drug assault cases and medical diagnostics.
He also wrote the Government’s specification for electronic curfew monitoring, helped companies develop their tagging products and has actively supported government as an expert in its implementation for around twenty years.
In 1996, he applied his expertise in toxicology to launch SureScreen Diagnostics which has since developed many diagnostic products that identify a medical problem which can then be treated correctly and without delay.
The Derby company, now managed by his three sons, employs several hundred staff manufacturing lateral flow rapid tests.
As well as selling products in over 50 countries, SureScreen has been a key partner to the British Government in supplying tens of millions of Covid tests to support the UK test and trace initiative in bringing this pandemic under control.
Jim attended Derby Technical College in the late 1960’s before it became The University of Derby, and has fond memories of his time at Kedleston Road. The university recognises the positive impact Jim and his work has had in the region and beyond.
He said: “I am immensely proud to be chosen for an honorary doctorate.
“My time at Kedleston Road inspired me to develop a scientific career and was the perfect springboard for future achievements. They would not have been possible without this educational foundation.
“I have a good relationship with The University of Derby and have been one of its industrial advisers for several years.
“I always do what I can to sing the praises of Derby graduates to others, and have been instrumental in employing several in our own business.”
Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “Our honorands provide inspiration for the thousands of our graduating students who are about to embark on their careers or further academic study.”