In the FST podcast, weekly one to one interviews allow a more in depth discussion of both topics being explored in Foundation events, and one-off discussions with senior figures across science, research, technology and innovation. It's available here, and can also be accessed on the main podcast hosting platforms.

We would welcome ideas for potential podcast topics or interviewees - please contact communications@foundation.org.uk.

Lexie Papaspyrou - Career barriers faced by lower socio-economic groups

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.

Antoinette Nothomb - The paint that captures carbon

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. This is the first in a series of podcasts with a 'decarbonising buildings' theme, in the lead up to an event we are hosting at The Royal Society on Wednesday 21st May.

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

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.

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

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.

Dr Jacqueline Campbell - climate, clouds and space science

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 2025.

Robert Hill - Northern Ireland's space technology industry

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. This is the first 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 2025.

Dr Claire Thorne -Women in Technology

This week we are discussing women and girls in tech; barriers, progress, skills and schooling. Here explore some of the issues is Dr Claire Thorne, co-chief executive of TechSheCan, one of Computer Weekly’s Top 15 Most Influential Women in UK Tech 2024, and more recently a council member of the The Foundation for Science and Technology.

Engineering Biology as a Critical Technology- Linda Bedenik

This week we are discussing engineering biology, some of the standout innovations coming out of the sector, what the inclusion of it into the Government’s ‘Critical Technologies’ list means, and the role of intellectual property. With me to discuss all of that is Linda Bedenik, Senior Policy and Public Affairs Manager at the BioIndustry Association (BIA) and a 2025 Foundation Future Leader.

Careers in STEM for young people, regardless of their background - James Adeleke

This week we discuss social mobility and closing the gap on careers in science and technology for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. With me to explore some of the issues is James Adeleke (FRSA), founder of Generation Success and co-opted member of the Education Board at the City of London Corporation.

What does equity and diversity look like in STEM? - Lauren Thomas-Seale and Sam Islam

In this episode, we are discussing equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in careers in science and technology. To explore some of the issues and where things could be improved are two members of the Foundation Future Leaders cohort of 2024. They are: Dr Lauren Thomas-Seale, Senior Lecturer at the University of Birmingham and Sam Islam, Systems Engineering Consultant at the Energy Systems Catapult.