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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.

Filter: Year 2026

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.

Nick McKeown - How do we build an AI chip design industry in the UK?

  • 15 May, 2026
In this episode, we chat to Nick McKeown, Professor Emeritus of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at Stanford University, about building a sovereign AI chip design industry in the UK. Nick led the Council for Science and Technology (CST)'s recent letter of advice to the government (Aug 25) on building a sovereign AI chip design industry. He explores the skills needed to ensure the UK has the workforce pipeline in place, such as specialised university courses in chip design. Thank you to our podcast volunteer and Civil Service Faststreamer, Geena Goodwin for coordinating and hosting this episode.

Jenny Chapman and Annie O'Brien - How does science shape policy?

  • 8 May, 2026
This week we are exploring how science can shape policy and the mechanisms within parliament which inform policy decisions with scientific evidence. Our guests are Jenny Chapman, Biology and Health Advisor for the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology and 2026 Foundation Future Leader, and Annie O'Brien, PhD candidate at The University of Manchester and POST fellow.

Joaquin Perez-Grande - How space science helps us to problem solve on Earth

  • 24 April, 2026
This week we are exploring sustainability in space, the satellite innovation ecosystem, how satellite technology could help solve big issues on our planet, such as cancer treatments, and why communicating space science effectively can be tricky. To discuss this is Joaquin Perez-Grande, Partnerships and Policy Manager (Place) at the Satellite Applications Catapult and 2026 Foundation Future Leader.

Professor David Patterson and Dr Mark James - Interdisciplinary action for our oceans

  • 1 April, 2026
This week we are discussing the urgent challenges facing the UK’s coasts and seas, balancing protection with demand and how one interdisciplinary group of scientists, policymakers, community and industry experts came together to tackle the problem. To explore how researchers and experts from different sides came together to form the Sustainable Management of UK Marine Resources Network, and the impacts of their work, Professor David Patterson and Dr Mark James of St Andrews University and SMMR champions joined us on the podcast.

Rory Daniels - The UK robotics industry

  • 9 March, 2026
This week we are discussing robotics, and the UK robotics industry. Here to explore that is Rory Daniels, Head of Emerging Technology and Innovation at TechUK.

Podcast Archive