Emeritus Professor David Kemp has been named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2026 New Year's Honours for his contributions to auditory sciences and public health. Professor Kemp, affiliated with the UCL Ear Institute, is recognized for discovering otoacoustic emissions—sounds produced by a healthy inner ear. His research led to new techniques for hearing measurement and was instrumental in establishing the first NHS newborn hearing screening programme in five decades. He also founded Otodynamics, a company that manufactures diagnostic equipment for hearing defects.
Reflecting on his recognition, Professor Kemp stated: “This work involved many people and research groups – it was much bigger than my efforts. The aim was to stop kids born with bad hearing from being handicapped by not hearing and learning their language in their early years. Parents’ suspicions were ignored by doctors until they should have started to talk at 2-3 years and didn’t – this was too late. The answer was a test of hearing quick enough to give to every baby at birth – made possible by otoacoustic emissions.The ear is an amazing bit of bio-machinery and research goes on to uncover the mystery of how it works. I provided a missing piece of the jigsaw, but there are still lots of missing pieces to find.”
Robert Nolan, chair of Deafblind UK, received an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to individuals living with deafblindness. Nolan lives with Type 2 Usher Syndrome and has had a 35-year career at Shell Exploration and Production, where he led European operations teams globally. In addition to his professional achievements, Nolan is known as an endurance athlete and fundraiser, having participated in marathons and tandem cycling events.
Nolan has volunteered with Deafblind UK for over 26 years and previously chaired Deafblind Scotland for 18 years. His award acknowledges long-standing advocacy work aimed at improving support systems for those experiencing both sight and hearing loss.
Deafblind UK highlighted that Nolan’s recognition brings attention not only to his personal achievements but also raises awareness about issues facing people who are deafblind.
“I am deeply honoured and very proud to receive this award,” said Robert Nolan. “I have always believed that deafblind people should be visible, heard and represented, including in leadership roles. Whether through my career or volunteering I have tried to challenge assumptions and highlight what people living with deafblindness can do, rather than what they may not be able to. With that in mind I see this honour as a celebration not only of my contribution but of the talent and resilience that is found in the deafblind community as whole."
“With the centenary of Deafblind UK approaching in 2028, I am also mindful that there is much more to do to improve awareness and opportunities, and I hope this recognition helps open doors for greater understanding and inclusion.”
