A professor from Watford is the 2015 Royal Society of Physical Organic Chemistry Award winner for his work which could help treat diabetes and cystic fibrosis.

Professor Anthony Davis, who works to design molecules for specific uses, said: "Molecules are the smallest objects that can be designed because they are the smallest objects that can possess complex shapes.

"We have made molecules which bind sugars in water, with potential for use in glucose monitors, which can help in the management of diabetes.

"We have also made molecules which can bind chloride anions and carry them across cell membranes. We believe these agents could counteract the genetic defect which causes cystic fibrosis, and could potentially be used as treatments for this condition."

The Physical Organic Chemistry Award covers the relationship between structure and molecular behaviours in chemistry. Professor Davis received £2,000, a medal and a certificate.

He said: "It’s very nice to be appreciated and I thank all of my co-workers, whose contributions have been critical."

Dr Robert Parker, chief executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: "It is always a pleasure to recognise excellence in the chemical sciences and I am pleased to acknowledge the illustrious achievements of our prize and award winners this year.

"Whether they work in research, industry or academia, our winners are the very best in their fields, and they can be very proud to follow in the footsteps of some of the most influential and important scientists around the world.

"In a complex and changing world, chemistry and the chemical sciences are vital in responding to some of humanity’s biggest challenges and our prize and award winners are at the forefront of meeting that challenge."