Look ahead
Career streams from STEAM Fair Over 200 students from five Berkshire schools were lucky enough to hear molecular biologist, geneticist and television presenter, Dr Emily Grossman, deliver the inaugural STEAM lecture at Leighton Park School’s STEAM Careers Fair Dr Grossman recently joined Astronaut, Tim Peake, as one of the nation’s two Honorary STEM Ambassadors and, using her phenomenal talents, she aims ‘to show people just how exciting science is, and to make it more accessible by explaining complex concepts in a fun and engaging way.’ Describing herself as a Science communicator, she uses her website to explain: ‘I’m an expert in molecular biology and genetics, with a Double First in Natural Sciences from Queens’ College, Cambridge and a PhD in cancer research. I also trained and worked as an actress and singer, and I now combine my skills as a science communicator, broadcaster, author, educator and trainer. ‘I talk about science on the TV and radio, I give talks in schools, universities and at live events, I teach maths and science, I write books and articles about science, and I help others to communicate clearly about their work. ‘ I also campaign to increase diversity in science by encouraging more young people, especially girls, to choose careers in science. I am passionate about changing the perception of what it is to be a scientist and raising awareness as to the value of emotions in science and society. I enjoy sharing my own challenges and experiences as a woman in STEM in a way that might support and inspire others to reach their potential and attain their goals. I hope that I can be a role-model to young women.
‘I love bringing simplicity and clarity to others – that lightbulb moment when it all makes sense. I think of myself as a translator, a bridge between the scientific community and the public.’ Karen Gracie-Langrick, Leighton Park’s Academic Deputy Head, praised the talk as ‘a fascinating insight into recent developments in science, in particular biotechnology and transformative medicine. It was a very accessible presentation and left us all with a sense of awe, wondering what will be possible in the future. Emily is a strong female ambassador for women in science and a real inspiration to all the students who heard her speak.’ Sponsored by Cisco, the lecture offered a light-hearted but insightful overview of pioneering biotechnology under the humorous heading, ‘How to Build a Human.’ Hema Marshall, Executive Lead for Inclusion and Diversity at Cisco UKI, said, ‘Dr Grossman’s lecture was a fabulous start to this annual series. Emily is a wonderful and engaging STEM role model and the excitement of the students was great to see. I especially enjoyed the section on stem cells and how we could potentially re-grow our own body. Cisco is delighted to support this initiative as part of our broader commitment to encourage girls and boys to consider STEM careers’. The STEAM Careers Fair is designed to offer insights into professions from across the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) industries. Visitors from Year 10 to the Upper Sixth at Leighton Park School, together with around
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