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Professor Vincent Savolainen has been admitted to the Freedom of the City of London and the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers, in recognition of his contributions to science.

, Director of Imperial’s Georgina Mace Centre for the Living Planet, received the on 13 April, followed by his admission as a Liveryman of the on 24 April.

"I am thrilled to join the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers as a Liveryman and to celebrate the incredible historic heritage of the City as a Freeman. This brings superb opportunities for networking and to help support STEM opportunities for young people." Professor Vincent Savolainen Director, Georgina Mace Centre for the Living Planet

The Freedom of the City of London is a historic civic distinction, with origins in the medieval period. Today it is awarded as a ceremonial honour which marks an individual’s connection to the City and is a prerequisite for becoming a Liveryman of one of its livery companies. It is traditionally associated with historic privileges such as the right to drive sheep across London Bridge, reflecting its long-standing heritage.

Livery companies play an active role in supporting professional communities, education and charitable activity across the UK. The Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers promotes excellence particularly in the development and application of scientific instruments and supports initiatives in science and engineering.

Professor Savolainen said: 'I am thrilled to join the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers as a Liveryman and to celebrate the incredible historic heritage of the City as a Freeman. This brings superb opportunities for networking and to help support STEM opportunities for young people.'

Starting in May 2026, he will take on a new role as Associate Dean in the Faculty of Natural Sciences, helping to reshape equality, diversity and inclusion to benefit both staff and ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½. His admission to both the Freedom and the Livery reflects the continued links between the City of London’s historic institutions and contemporary scientific research, highlighting the role of science and innovation within the City’s wider civic and professional networks.