The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has announced the winners of the 2007/08 Sir Ian Dixon Scholarships.

Ben Potts from Killby & Gayford and Edward Basterfield from Costain received the accolades from the CIOB in conjunction with the Worshipful Company of Constructors, which has run the Sir Ian Dixon Scholarship since 1998.

The scholarship, which is awarded annually, involves a 12-month study of a Construction Management topic which is of mutual interest to the individual’s host company, the Worshipful Company of Constructors, the CIOB and the individuals themselves.

Dr Sarah Peace, CIOB Research Manager, said: "Every year the quality of work that we receive exceeds our expectation. Research is both innovative and beneficial to the industry and the people involved within it."


The scholars who are put through the scheme are the industry’s brightest young talents, and quickly establish a reputation for consistent excellence and professionalism. The benefits of the Sir Ian Dixon Scholarship relates not only to the funding provided by the scholarship, but also the support and closer integration of the scholar with its employer and vice versa.

The research is often related closely to the specific needs of the employer and so it can provide a positive platform to take on board any further development within the organisation. It also provides a tangible benefit to the scholar in a piece of work that they can be proud of.

Ben Potts from Killby & Gayford is investigating 'How to effectively implement an EMS & ISO 14001 standard in Medium Sized Building Contractors (specifically at site level)'. Costain’s Edward Basterfield is researching 'The Post Study Training and Development of Construction Graduates'.

If you are interested in applying to become a Sir Ian Dixon Scholar or would like further information please contact Sarah Peace CIOB research manager on Tel: 01344 630776 or email: speace@ciob.org.uk. Alternatively visit: www.ciob.org.uk/events.

(JM)