Jim Ratcliffe, who is the co-owner of Manchester United football club, has received Oxford University’s Sheldon Medal for philanthropy, following a gift of £100 million to the University in 2021.
The money was used to found the Ineos Oxford Institute for antimicrobial research (IOI),named after INEOS, a global petrochemicals manufacturer, of which Ratcliffe is the Chairman. The institute aims to combine research and industry innovations to overcome threats to global health, food security, and development. It is particularly focused on the issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is predicted to be responsible for upwards of 10 million deaths per year, and by 2050 to have cost the world’s economy more than $100 trillion.
The IOI works to develop new drugs, as well as working at a global scale with governments, financial institutions, and health organisations to increase investment in antimicrobial research.
Ratcliffe said: “I am truly honoured to receive the Sheldon Medal in recognition of INEOS’ donation to the University of Oxford to progress the urgent search for solutions to the crisis of antimicrobial resistance.
“It is a privilege to partner with such a world-class university, whose history is entwined with that of antibiotics, to tackle such a key global challenge.”
The Sheldon Medal is Oxford University’s most prestigious award. It was designed and crafted by sculptor Emma Lavender over several months. A portrait of Ratcliffe occupies one side, the Sheldonian Theatre the other.
It was first awarded in 2002 and Sir Jim Ratcliffe is its eleventh recipient. Only two of each design are produced: a silver medal, and a bronze copy, which is housed in the Ashmolean Museum.
Ratcliffe was presented with the award by Professor Irene Tracey, Vice-Chancellor of the University, at a special event at the Sheldonian Theatre on Wednesday 5th February, which was followed by a dinner in the Divinity School.
Also recognised during the event were INEOS co-founders John Reece and Andy Currie.
