Dr Dehaghani is a leading expert on safeguards for vulnerable people in the criminal justice system.

Her outstanding contributions to interdisciplinary research, as well as her influence on policy and practice, are matched by exemplary research leadership and extensive work beyond her institution, including as co-founder and co-chair of the Vulnerability Research Network.

Sought out by other world-leading experts from a remarkably early career-stage, she has made a significant contribution to the development of the field of criminal justice and her work has changed the treatment of vulnerable suspects, including influencing the national Codes of Practice for police.

“Thank you to the Learned Society of Wales for this wonderful award, which is a timely recognition of my research, leadership, and impact beyond academia.

“I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and collaborators, friends and family for inspiring and supporting me. I hope to continue both working to improve the criminal justice process for vulnerable people, and supporting and encouraging others to make a positive impact in the world.”

Dr Roxanna Dehaghani

The Society’s three Dillwyn medals celebrate Welsh Scholarship and are awarded to early career researchers with between two and ten-year’s professional experience. The medals are named in honour of the distinguished Swansea based Dillwyn family who were distinguished in several fields of intellectual activity in arts and science.