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In the FST podcast, weekly one to one interviews allow a more in depth discussion of both topics being explored in Foundation events, and one-off discussions with senior figures across science, research, technology and innovation. It's available here, and can also be accessed on the main podcast hosting platforms.

We would welcome ideas for potential podcast topics or interviewees - please contact Gavin Costigan (gavin.costigan@foundation.org.uk).

What does equity and diversity look like in STEM? - Lauren Thomas-Seale and Sam Islam

  • 4 February, 2025
In this episode, we are discussing equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in careers in science and technology. To explore some of the issues and where things could be improved are two members of the Foundation Future Leaders cohort of 2024. They are: Dr Lauren Thomas-Seale, Senior Lecturer at the University of Birmingham and Sam Islam, Systems Engineering Consultant at the Energy Systems Catapult.

Opportunities and regulation of AI - Yann Sweeney

  • 24 January, 2025
In this podcast, we are in conversation with Yann Sweeney, Senior Editor for Computing and Robotics at Nature. We discuss recent developments in AI, how the UK and other countries are pursuing the opportunities it brings, and current developments in the area of regulation.

Wendy Jarrett - Understanding animal testing in the UK

  • 8 January, 2025
This week, our guest is Wendy Jarrett, Chief Executive of Understanding Animal Research. She discusses how, when, and why animals are used in research in the UK, along with the regulations governing this practice. Additionally, she addresses the controversies surrounding animal research and its future.

Dr Jill Zhao - Progress and barriers to low carbon living in the UK

  • 22 November, 2024
This week we are chatting with Dr Jing Jill Zhao, Senior Lecturer in Architecture and Construction Technology at UWE in Bristol. We discuss her research into a human-centred framework to deliver Net Zero in affordable housing. Also the progress and barriers to low carbon living in the UK. What more can be done to support the everyday person to achieve this?

Sarah Chaytor - Connecting research and policy

  • 12 November, 2024
This week we are discussing engagement between academics and policy professionals – and some of the recent programmes and activities in this area in the UK. Here to discuss that is Sarah Chaytor, Director of Research Strategy & Policy at University College London.

Professor Nathalie Pettorelli - Why it’s key to connect the climate and biodiversity crises

  • 6 November, 2024
Ahead of COP29, Professor Nathalie Pettorelli from The Institute of Zoology at the Zoological Society London (ZSL) joins us to explore how climate change and global biodiversity loss intersect, how solutions can address both, and how policy decision makers can do more.

Charles Harris - Protein folding and machine learning

  • 1 November, 2024
This week we talk to Charles Harris, PhD student at The University of Cambridge who is looking at marrying the lessons learnt by 2024 Chemistry Nobel Prize winners and their game-changing AI tool for predicting protein structures called AlphaFold with generative modelling and drug discovery.

Nicole Brown - Disability and STEM

  • 4 October, 2024
Our guest this week is Nicole Brown, Head of Research Ethics and Integrity at University College London (UCL)’s Institute of Education. Nicole discusses what academic teams need to do next to make Science and Technology more inclusive for those with disabilities, chronic illness and neuro divergence. She also looks at issues with disclosure, the importance of role models and the far reaching benefits of progress in this area.

Rachel Youngman - social justice and science

  • 27 September, 2024
Our guest this week is Rachel Youngman who has worked extensively in the legal profession, and in social justice particularly with young people and with refugees. For the last 10 years she has brought that society experience to science to help improve diversity and international collaboration. She is currently Chair of the Engineering Council’s Committee and has been a member of the External Advisory Board of the Quantum Hub for Sensors and Metrology and until March, Deputy CEO at The Institute of Physics. Today we are discussing the importance of science and technology in society, science communication and the importance of making STEM a space for all.

Professor Sir Peter Knight - Quantum Technologies

  • 17 September, 2024
In this podcast, Professor Sir Peter Knight, Chair of the UK National Quantum Technology Programme Strategic Advisory Board, discusses quantum technologies in the UK - what they are, how close they are to market, and what support might be needed from the UK Government.

Podcast Archive