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

This week, we are discussing the co-benefits of the Warm Homes Plan, how to balance net-zero targets with community needs, and the unique challenges of heat decarbonisation. Louise Shooter, Head of heat decarbonisation at Energy UK helps us to explore this. This podcast was hosted by FST volunteer, Geena Goodwin.

Louise Shooter - The human aspect of net-zero targets

This week we are discussing education-focused academia, equity in learning, the student experience and how interdisciplinary science can make for a more inclusive STEM landscape.

Dr Helen Coulshed - Academia and the learning experience

The UN has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. In this episode, we explore how the quantum revolution shaped things to come, the intersection between quantum computing and AI, and what the UK is doing in this space.

Professor Sir Peter Knight and Dr Robert Lock - Quantum and what the future holds

This week, we are discussing fertility treatment in the UK. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) recently published its Fertility Trends report which revealed that 1 in 32 births in the UK are a result of IVF.  To help explore this, as well as some of the science and policy surrounding fertility treatment, is Rachel Cutting, Director of Compliance and Information at the HFEA.

Rachel Cutting - Fertility trends and treatment in the UK

This week, we are joined by Mehwaesh Islam, Head of Research Policy at Universities UK. UUK is a membership organisation, representing the views of 141 UK universities to influence policy and opinion, coordinate action, and provide insight into universities. Together, we explore the future of UK R&D, in particular the challenges faced by the University sector.

This week's host is Geena Goodwin, Science and Engineering Fast Streamer in the civil service and a volunteer with the Foundation.

Mehwaesh Islam - the future of UK Research and Development

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