Soapbox Science Duo Commended by Prime Minister

Two inspirational female scientists who founded an initiative that takes science out of the labs and highlights the work of women in cutting edge research have been named Points of Light by Prime Minister David Cameron.

Dr Seirian Sumner, a senior lecturer in behavioural biology at the University of Bristol and Dr Nathalie Pettorelli, a research fellow at the Institute of Zoology, are the latest recipients of the award which recognises outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.  

They founded Soapbox Science, a grass-roots approach bringing science to the streets for everyone while working with the UK’s top female academics to make women in science more visible.   It held its second event in Bristol this month, attracting over 1200 members of the public. The Bristol event was one of 7 events held by Soapbox around the country this year, with scientists taking to their soapboxes in London, Exeter, Swansea, Belfast, Glasgow and Newcastle.

Dr Pettorelli and Dr Sumner are thrilled to see their initiative take off nationally, reaching over 10,000 people this year, and they look forward to an international expansion next year.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Through Soapbox Science, Seirian and Nathalie have inspired scores of leading female scientists from around the country to get out onto the streets and encourage girls to learn more about the opportunities open to them through science.  It’s so important that girls feel as able as boys to pursue a career in science.  And it’s great that thousands of people can look to Seirian and Nathalie as role models.  I am delighted to recognise them both by making them Points of Light.”