Lecturers from Oxford's two universities are in the running for a £50,000 award, after being named among the best teachers in the country.

Dr David Acheson, a mathematics Fellow at Jesus College, Oxford University, and Margaret Price, principal lecturer in management at Oxford Brookes University, have been nominated for National Teaching Fellowships.

The scheme was launched two years ago to reward excellence in teaching and learning in higher education.

The two lecturers were put forward by their respective universities and are among 82 entries.

Dr Acheson, 45, has been at Oxford University for 29 years. He teaches applied maths and dynamics. He said: "I'm very pleased to be nominated, and I'd be very pleased if I were successful.

"I believe it is a good idea to highlight the role of teaching in universities."

Ms Price, 44, has been at Oxford Brookes for 12 years and specialises in teaching interactive business skills and curriculum development.

She said: "It's quite an honour.

"I've been a teacher for a long time and I think it's important to make it exciting for students so they're motivated to learn.

"It's an excellent scheme and a great way of getting respect for learning in universities, instead of just research."

A national advisory panel will pick 20 winners, who will receive their awards in London in July.