Brunel University honours Ferrari technical chief.

Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn has been awarded an honorary doctorate in engineering by Brunel University.

Brawn, an honorary member of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, has been involved in motorsport for over 30 years and was given his doctorate at a Motorsport Engineering themed dinner on 24 January - an event celebrating the bicentenary of the birth of Isambard Kingdom Brunel - at which both Brawn and Sir Frank Williams were speaking.

"With the most illustrious of engineers behind Brunel, the university continues to stand for excellence within the field," Brawn said. "I've seen this first hand in the cars the students create as part of their Motorsport Engineering degrees, which have impressed me immensely.

"I'm delighted to be given this doctorate: I'm sure I'll be working alongside, or against many fellow Brunel alumni in the field in future Formula One races."

Professor Steve Hodkinson, pro-vice chancellor of Brunel University said he felt Brawn was a fitting recipient of the doctorate.

"As one of the most respected figures within the motorsport industry, Ross has been an inspiration to many of our students," he said. "Since engineering is central to Brunel's identity and Motorsport Engineering in particular is one of the areas in which the School excels, awarding a Doctorate to Ross is particularly fitting. We hope we will both look forward to continued success on the track and in the workshop."