FST PODCAST
In the FST podcast, 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.
Professor Catherine Hobbs - The future of maths in higher education
- 23 September, 2026
This week, we are exploring maths in higher education. Maths has long been the most popular subject at A level, but the landscape of maths in higher education is evolving rapidly. How has this affected who chooses to study maths at university, where do maths graduates end up, and what does the future of maths education look like?
To discuss this is Professor Catherine Hobbs, Professor of Mathematics and Mathematics Education at the University of Bristol, and Honorary Secretary for Education at the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.
Professor Jane Clarke - Are we teaching maths the right way in school?
- 14 September, 2026
This week, we are exploring maths in schools. Is the way we teach maths keeping pace with an increasingly data-centred world? Does the current system provide all students with the mathematical skills they will need? And what does the future of maths education look like?
Joining us is Professor Jane Clarke, Emeritus Professor of Molecular Biophysics at the University of Cambridge, and Chair of the Royal Society Advisory Committee on Mathematics Education.
Dr Hamied Haroon - Changing the face of disability in STEM
- 4 September, 2026
This week, we explore equality of opportunity, changing stereotypes around disability, a pioneering staff network, and how institutions can embrace disability for what it can bring to science. We have Research Scientist in Medical MR Imaging Physics at The University of Manchester and Chair of the National Association of Disabled Staff Networks, Dr Hamied Haroon on the podcast to discuss this.
Simone Mordue and Beth Chamberlain - The impact of climate change on birds
- 12 August, 2026
This week we deep dive into a new report published by the RSPB and British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) on the impacts of climate change on UK birds. With recent heatwaves a reminder that our planet is changing, the new report explores how the climate crisis is already impacting UK birds and why restoring nature is key to their future. We are joined by Simone Mordue from the RSPB Conservation Science team and co-author of the report, and Bethany Chamberlain, RSPB Senior Policy Officer.
Hannah Russell - Public attitudes to science
- 27 July, 2026
This week, we dive into public attitudes to science, representation, ethics, and what young people are saying about STEM. To help us to explore all of this, we are joined by the Chief Executive of the British Science Association, Hannah Russell.
Dr Sameh ElBadry - Evidence at the heart of decision making
- 22 July, 2026
We explore evidence with Dr Sam ElBadry, Policy Projects Coordinator at Sense About Science. He talks to us about the importance of strong scientific evidence, the public’s view, and how evidence is used in Parliament and in policy decision-making.
Saul Klein - the UK's innovation ecosystem
- 20 July, 2026
This week we are joined by Saul Klein. With 32 years of experience as a founder, CEO, investor, and policy advisor across the U.K., Europe, Israel, and the US, Saul helps us explore the UK innovation ecosystem, his career and in particular, how he advises the government on supporting companies to scale up.
Professor Tyler Kelly - LGBTQ+ in STEM and meaningful allyship
- 3 July, 2026
We talk to Professor Tyler Kelly, Pure Mathematics Professor and UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellow at Queen Mary University London, about their role as co-Chair of LGBTQ+ STEM. We hear about a pioneering mentorship scheme and what meaningful allyship looks like within the wider scientific community.
Liz Wainwright - What is AI for science?
- 2 June, 2026
This week we are exploring AI for science (and what this means), using super computers in research and what this changing landscape means for UK Universities. To discuss this is Liz Wainwright, Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives at Edinburgh Innovations which is part of The University of Edinburgh.
Sean Smith - Could plant-based molecules offer solutions for pesticide use?
- 27 May, 2026
This week we explore pesticides- how do we balance protecting the food we eat on a mass scale, with environmental and health issues? Could natural chemistry, based on plant-derived molecules offer some solutions? Chief Executive of Eden Research, Sean Smith joins us to investigate.