Praise for Nick from Intel chief

PROCESS SUCCESS: Award winner Nick Hayward from Kingsdown Ref: 67460

    THE education manager of a top technology company has spoken of the excellent scientific research project carried out by a Dover grammar school student whose work is to be displayed at an international fair.
    As reported in the Mercury, Nick Hayward, the school's 18-year-old head prefect, from Kingsdown, won a top prize at the British Association Science Fair and will now compete at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Louisville, Kentucky, in May.
    Nick's work involves a successful drug development procedure which he devised during a five-week research project with Pfizer.
    He came up with a revolutionary method for one of the steps of drug development from raw material to drug substance. It is a new pharmaceutical process with financial and environmental benefits.
    What made his achievement amazing was that he succeeded where older and more experienced university graduates had failed.
    Ian Halpin, Intel's Northern Europe Education Manager, described Nick's research as pioneering and leading edge.
    "This process can significantly improve cost, efficiency, reduce handling risk and is environmentally friendly," he said.
    "Nick won because his project demonstrates leading edge organic chemistry research.
    "His scientific procedure was excellent and the project even exceeded the expectations at Pftzer.
    "Despite the complexity of the project, Nick can discuss it in a well informed, clear manner."

    Nick said he hadn't expected to win, particularly against such strong competition.
    "Attending the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Kentucky will be a fantastic and exciting opportunity," he said.
    Nick chose the project because he is interested in pharmacology and plans to go to Cambridge University. "My time at Pfizer was invaluable in increasing my understanding of pharmaceutical research and development."

    Attending the fair in Kentucky could be the next step towards a glittering career for Nick. Intel ISEF, now is its 53rd year, and its sister contest Intel Science Talent Search, have between them produced five Nobel Laureates.