Joe Rees-Jones shortlisted for Times Higher Education Awards

Joe Rees-Jones, creative technician at XR Stories, has been shortlisted for the ‘Outstanding Technician of the Year’ category at this year’s Times Higher Education (THE) awards.

Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the winners will be announced at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on Thursday 13 November.

Joe was nominated for his work delivering and inspiring new approaches, techniques and experiences across research, teaching and creative practice

Alongside his creative technician duties, Joe supports research and teaching at the University’s AudioLab where he co-designed and delivers a module to MSc Audio and Music Technology students.

Commenting on the shortlisting, Joe said: “I am thankful to have been shortlisted for this award. The recognition reflects not just my own work but the incredible collaboration and creativity of the XR Stories and AudioLab teams at the University of York.

“I’m grateful to be part of such a diverse range of projects supporting research, creativity and innovation in immersive and audio technologies.

“Thank you to the THE Awards for highlighting the important role of technical staff in higher education and good luck to the other technicians shortlisted in the category.”

Damian Murphy, Professor of Sound and Music Computing and Director of XR Stories, University of York, added: “Joe’s person-centered, down-to-earth approach enables the highest quality teaching, research and knowledge transfer.

“His work is testament to the essential role that technicians play in fostering innovation in creative practice, both in higher education and in the creative industries.

“I’m delighted that Joe has been shortlisted and wish him all the success at the ceremony in November.”

Explore all of this year’s shortlisted individuals and institutions on the THE awards website.

Content repurposed with permission from the University of York website news story: York shortlisted in two categories at prestigious THE Awards 2025.

Published on 5 September 2025