This week, we explore the Space Technology Industry in Northern Ireland with Robert Hill, manager for the Northern Ireland Space Cluster and Chair of the Northern Ireland Space Special Interest Group. Robert is also Chair of Matrix, the Northern Ireland Science Industry panel, which in March 2025 published a report on the space industry in Northern Ireland.

Robert Hill - Northern Ireland's space technology industry

This week we are discussing astrophysics, how to better understand changing clouds, their impact on Earth's climate, making the most of open data, unconventional career paths and the power of ‘paying it forward.’

With me to discuss all of that is Dr Jacqueline Campbell, Co-Founder & Partner Scientist at asterisk labs, ARIA R&D Creator and Schmidt Science Fellow.

This is the second in a series of space-related podcast episodes leading up to our evening discussion on space missions and their impact on UK space science and industry, in April.

Dr Jacqueline Campbell - climate, clouds and space science

This week, we are exploring the interface of Government and the research ecosystem in the modern age. The Foundation’s Chief Executive and former Civil Servant, Gavin Costigan discusses this and the significance of knowledge brokers.

For this episode, we are delighted to welcome guest host, Keegan Schroeder, science and engineering fast streamer at DEFRA.

Gavin Costigan - working at the intersection of Government and the research ecosystem

This week we are joined by Foundation Future Leader, Dr Adam Berlie who helps us explore the weird and wonderful world of muon instrument research at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. We also talk about neurodivergence and inclusivity in research, the magic of hobbies, and transferable, 'soft skills' into STEM.

Dr Adam Berlie - muon science and what jazz guitar can bring to STEM

This week, we are joined by Antoinette Nothomb, co- founder of Cyanoskin, a female-led start-up that has created an algae-based paint designed to capture Co2 from the outside of buildings. We explore why algae is a sustainability superhero, big plans for the future, and her thoughts on UK and EU policy on decarbonising buildings. 

Antoinette Nothomb - The paint that captures carbon

This week we are discussing STEM careers and the barriers faced by those from lower socio-economic groups to a successful career in STEM. To help us explore some of the issues is Lexie Papaspyrou, Project Manager for the Tech Futures Task Force at the Sutton Trust.  

Lexie Papaspyrou -  STEM career barriers faced by lower socio-economic groups

This week we are discussing advanced composite materials with Dr Monali Dahale, Advanced Research Engineer at the National Composites Centre. We explore key technologies, future aspirations and scaling up.

Dr Monali Dahale - Advanced composite materials

This week we are discussing chemical toxicity, and the effect of chemicals on human health and the global ecosystem. We are having this conversation to coincide with a major new report on pervasive toxicity being published this week by Deep Science Ventures (DSV). Our guest is Senior Associate for Climate at DSV, Harry Macpherson.

Harry Macpherson - chemical toxicity, human health and the global ecosystem

This week we are discussing returning to a career in research after a break for family reasons, health or caring responsibilities. We will explore challenges, the skills shortage in STEM, success stories and support available. With me to discuss all of this is Dr Katie Perry, Chief Executive at the Daphne Jackson Trust.

Dr Katie Perry - Returning to a career in research after a break

This week we are discussing one of the more challenging aspects of the UK’s race to net zero by 2050 - decarbonising our homes and buildings. Jon Saltmarsh, Chief Technology Officer at Energy Systems Catapult helps us to explore this.

Jon Saltmarsh - NetZero and changing our homes and buildings

The Foundation for Science and Technology podcast - exploring issues of science, technology and innovation with experts from government, parliament, industry and the research community.