Decarbonisation Pioneer Receives Honorary Award from University of Lincoln
11 September 2024
Written by: Hannah McGowan
Lincolnshire-born Isobel Sheldon OBE has been recognised by the University of Lincoln, UK, as an Honorand during a ceremony on Wednesday 11 September, at the institute’s yearly Graduation ceremonies held at Lincoln Cathedral.
As a trailblazer in the lithium-ion battery industry, Isobel has more than 22 years’ experience dedicated to the decarbonisation of transport and advancing sustainability within the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector.
Born and raised in Grantham, Lincolnshire, Isobel’s passion for alternative fueled vehicles was ignited at the age of eight when her father explained the workings of an internal combustion engine, leading to her lifelong mission to revolutionise transportation.
Her professional journey began with the founding of Amberjac Projects in Grantham in 2003 which would go on to spearhead projects that would lay the groundwork for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, tackling some of the most challenging aspects of lithium-ion technology.
Since then, Isobel has held senior roles at organisations across the sector, including Britishvolt and Johnson Matthey Battery Systems, which solidified her status as a leading figure in battery technology.
Isobel played an instrumental role in several world-first innovations, including the development of the world’s first commercially available Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) in 2004, the creation of the highest power density batteries in automotive history, and the pioneering of the world’s first 12-metre electric bus battery.
Her leadership extends to her role with the NED Offshore Wind Growth Partnership and as a Board of Trustees member at The Faraday Institution, where she is working to shape the future of renewable energy in the UK and generate a broader societal understanding of sustainability and the critical role of renewable energy.
Isobel’s story is one of innovation, dedication, and impact and that was acknowledged in 2020 when she was awarded an OBE for her outstanding contributions to EV battery development.
Speaking about her Honorary award, Isobel said: “Being a resident of the Lincolnshire area for 40 years and not having the opportunity to attend university, it’s a significant honour and privilege to be invited to take an Honorary Doctor of Science from the University of Lincoln.
“My message to graduating students is simple; believe in yourself, don’t listen to people who tell you that you can’t do something, and go out there and change the world.”