Nazarbayev University extends its heartfelt appreciation to Associate Professor Desmond Adair for his fifteen years of dedicated service to the University and its students, particularly within the School of Engineering and Digital Sciences.
Since joining NU in its formative years, Prof Adair has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic foundation and international reputation of the School. As an inspiring educator and mentor, he has empowered generations of students to think critically, collaborate with integrity, and approach complex challenges with creativity and confidence.
His contributions to innovative teaching were formally recognized in 2017, when he received the inaugural Nazarbayev University Teaching Award in the category of Innovative Teaching. His photograph, proudly displayed on the University’s Skywalk of Fame, remains a lasting tribute to his impact and serves as an inspiration to colleagues and students alike.
Prof. Adair received his PhD from Imperial College, University of London. He subsequently worked at various reseach establishments in the UK and the US, namely, NASA-Ames Research Center, California, National Institute of Science & Technology, Maryland, National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, UK and the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Maryland. He then went on to work for British Aerospace. Prof. Adair was a Senior Lecturer with the University of Tasmania before joining Nazarbayev University.
He received several awards in recent years:
Gulf Medal 1991 (Awarded by the Queen).
GHQ Award for Excellence, RSAF 1995, (Awarded by the Head of the Royal Saudi Airforce).
State Medal for Merit in Development of Science within the Republic of Kazakhstan 2014 (Awarded by the Minister of Edcation for Kazahstan).
State Medal for Honoured Worker in Education within the Republic of Kazakhstan 2015 (Awarded by the President of Kazakhstan).
Nazarbayev University Teaching Award for Innovative Teaching, 2017, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan.
Green Campus Innovation Competition – Winner, 2020 (Awarded by Chevron).
Prof Adair’s commitment to the co-creation of knowledge and his unwavering support for student success have left a lasting legacy at NU. His principled approach, clarity of thought, and signature British sense of humor have enriched the entire university community.
As he returns to the UK, Prof Adair leaves behind a stronger School and a grateful university that will continue to benefit from his many contributions. He will always be remembered as a mentor, a role model, and a valued member of the NU Community.
We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
