Institution news
The upcoming IMechE Tribology Day, 3 December, puts this challenge centre stage, making it a must attend event for members. Join us in person for a morning of presentations and awards, and an afternoon of learning at the Donald Julius Groen Prize Lecture.
We’ll be celebrating achievement across the tribology community, and bring together the researchers developing the tools, materials and models that can recover that wasted energy and transform performance across industry.
Mission of Tribology: competition and collaboration
The
34th Mission of Tribology will anchor the day’s programme at One Birdcage Walk. This free-to-attend, half-day engineering competition will enable you to meet with fellow researchers for a series of presentations and discussions on current aims and progress in Tribology.
We'll be awarding cash prizes for presentations and the event will close with an awards reception where competitors, sponsors and medallists can network and celebrate collective achievements.
Donald Julius Groen Prize Lecture
All attendees will also be registered for the
Donald Julius Groen Prize Lecture, which explores new routes to reduce friction related energy loss. The talk will examine
advances in laser surface texturing and pressure sensitive oil additives that offer practical efficiency gains without major machine redesign.
Engineers will gain insight into how micro scale mechanisms can deliver macro scale performance benefits. You can also attend the lecture remotely -
sign up for your place.
Announcing our 2025 Tribology Medal Winners
Tribology Gold Medal 2025: Professor Emeritus Izhak Etsion
Professor Emeritus Izhak Etsion will be awarded the Tribology Gold Medal for landmark contributions across seal dynamics, laser surface texturing and rough surface contact modelling. His research has produced widely adopted models, major collaborations and successful innovations. His work remains foundational to both theoretical and applied tribology.
Tribology Silver Medal 2025: Professor Mark Rainforth FREng
Professor Mark Rainforth FREng will receive the
Tribology Silver Medal for four decades of influential research in metals and ceramics. His work has shaped global understanding of tribological mechanisms and guided industry practice. With more than 400 publications and a distinguished academic career, he continues to be a leading voice in materials and tribology.
Tribology Bronze Medal 2025: Ben Kew
Ben Kew will receive the
Tribology Bronze Medal for his pioneering research in oral tribology and sustainable food technology. His studies on plant protein lubrication and biomimetic tongue like surfaces are advancing understanding of next generation food textures. He is also recognised for his leadership and outreach within the tribology community.
Register today
IMechE Tribology Day offers attendees a valuable opportunity to engage with leading research and connect with peers across the community. Register now for the Mission of Tribology and the Donald Julius Groen Prize Lecture, explore medallist citations and share the details with colleagues. Join us to celebrate innovation and champion the future of tribology.