Co-founder Director at YSA

I am responsible for running the Youth STEMM Award, a nationally recognised programme that supports and inspires young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. My role involves overseeing partnerships with organisations such as the University of East Anglia, developing strategic plans for the Award’s future growth, and expanding our reach to more schools globally. I also line-manage our Communications Officer, who leads social media and marketing efforts. The key skills required for my role include strong organisation, as I manage multiple projects simultaneously, effective communication and presentation skills, and the ability to collaborate with various stakeholders to achieve our goals.

Whilst I quite enjoyed science at school, I never really imagined I would end up being a scientist. I did though, enjoy watching science TV documentaries and reading New Scientist Magazine! I guess this led me to pursue a degree in Biology and made me realise the power and value of public engagement. My early research experiences, particularly at the John Innes Centre, enabled me to develop my passion for both science and education. Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in public engagement and outreach, from appearing on radio and YouTube to holding events for schools. I was inspired to launch the Youth STEMM Award with my husband who is a teacher, as we saw a need to create a platform that could support and guide the next generation of young scientists, helping them explore the possibilities in STEMM. This desire to inspire and support young people continues to drive my work today.

After gaining my degree and masters degree I later graduated with a PhD which I completed with support of the John Innes Centre through my research publications. I have also completed a lot of media training and public speaking training.

My training in public speaking and how to give a presentation is very helpful in my role as I need to be able to communicate effectively. I now train the next generation through my role as Honorary Lecturer in science communication at the University of East Anglia.

I work from home most days and am usually at the Norwich Research Park once a week meeting colleagues. I have lots of teams meetings but can plan my own schedule and work flexibly which I value a lot.

I value the flexibility in my job, but most of all I value the positive impact in helping to support young people. All the effort seems worth it when I get amazing feedback about how taking part in the Youth STEMM Award has helped someone on their journey and given them confidence and skills they wouldn’t otherwise have had.

After 20 years in a busy laboratory working with people from all round the world it can be a bit isolating now working mostly at home in a desk job! It can also be hard running a small organisation as I am responsible for almost everything which is a big responsibility. That also brings freedom though and rewards when things go well!

Develop your communication skills and believe in yourself.