Dr Aisha Gill, a reader in criminology at the University of Roehampton, has received the award for outstanding impact in public policy.

Her research into countering honour killings and forced marriage has helped shape Government policy and landed her the prize awarded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

The Celebrating Impact prize is as annual award that recognises the successes of ESRC-funded researchers and this year it was Dr Gill who received £10,000 to promote the economic and social impact of her research.

Dr Gill said: "I’m honoured to have my work on addressing violence against women and girls recognised by the ESRC. I will use this prize to remain focused on addressing these harmful practices which remains a serious issue in the UK and internationally."

Dr Gill’s work has helped develop legislation including the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007, the National Police Honour-Based Strategy and the criminalisation of forced marriage under the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act.

Head of the department of social sciences Michele Lamb said: "I’m delighted for Aisha; this prize reflects the success Roehampton’s academic staff have in influencing policy in the real world.

"Our students benefit significantly by learning from high-calibre researchers who are dealing with governments and national organisations to influence how they operate; it brings significant extra insight to their work."