Women in Science and Engineering
Prof Hazel Screen - Head of the School of Engineering and Materials Science
Dr Kate Thornton - Technician of the Year
In 2023, Dr Kate Thornton, the Technical Resources Manager in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, was on the Outstanding Technician of the Year shortlist for the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards. This was in recognition of her exceptional practical skills, commitment and vision that have enabled the highest quality teaching, research and knowledge transfer within the Faculty. Kate is a highly respected professional who has transformed the technician community at Queen Mary into an efficient and cohesive team. She is also a passionate advocate for technicians and has worked tirelessly to ensure that they are valued and supported.
“I am a little overwhelmed and humbled to be recognized in this way. I am genuinely lucky to love my job and working with such fantastic technical teams across Queen Mary makes it easy to ‘make things happen'" commented Kate Thornton.
Kate also won the title of 'Outstanding Technician' at Queen Mary's 2023 Research and Innovation Awards.
Dr Océane Seudre - Postdoctoral Researcher Rising Talent Awardee
We are proud of our vibrant and diverse community of postdoctoral researchers that are fundamental to the success of our Research Centres. Their research achievements are recognised by prestigious awards and keynote publications. Dr Océane Seudre is among the winners of the 2024 L'Oréal UNESCO For Women In Science Rising Talents Awards. She is a postdoctoral research associate in the School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences.
"I am honoured to be recognised by L'Oréal UNESCO for my research. Understanding how butterflies adapt to their environment is not only fascinating but is also crucial for our understanding of how species respond to climate change. The flexibility of this award represents a rare opportunity for transformation, extending beyond enhancing my career prospects and fostering a healthier work-life balance as a mother to also build trust among the public and the research community.”
Dr Jessica Agnew-Blais - Leading research to understand ADHD in women
Dr Jessica Agnew-Blais's research investigates the development of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) across the life span, including how genetic and environmental risk factors are associated with ADHD course and outcomes. Her current research focuses on ADHD among girls and women, and the role of hormonal fluctuations. In 2023, Dr Agnew-Blais was awarded the Vice Principal's Award for Excellence and Collegiality in Research and Education, celebrating her all round outstanding contribution to psychology research and education.
To celebrate this important research, Queen Mary Faculty of Science and Engineering is delighted to present this short video clip of Jess explaining her inclusive research programme and how it incorporates the perspective of people with ADHD. As Dr Agnew-Blais says "no research about us without us". Find out more about Dr Agnew-Blais research here
Dr Zara Arain and Mia Crowther - Proud to be Engineering PhD students
Funded by a Royal Academy of Engineering, Ingenious Award with a £30,000 grant, Proud to be an Engineer is a project run by the School of Engineering and Materials Science which brings together engineers who are under-represented in the sector. The project aims to empower and support them to tell their stories and communicate their passion for engineering, ultimately changing perceptions of engineering, and inspiring a new generation of engineers. For more information, please contact Dr Tina Chowdhury.
