Sykes: A Legacy of Science Communication and Public Engagement
Bridging the gap between complex scientific research and the general public requires a unique blend of expertise, passion, and strategic leadership. Sykes has dedicated her career to this mission, establishing platforms that empower scientists to communicate their work effectively and ensuring that science remains accessible to all.
Key Facts
- Co-founder and Co-director: Cheltenham Science Festival and Famelab.
- Government Advisor: Member of the Council for Science and Technology (CST).
- Honours: Appointed Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2009.
- Academic Recognition: Honorary Doctor of Science degree and honorary fellowship from the University of Gloucestershire.
- Leadership: Former Head of Science for Explore-At-Bristol.
Career and Leadership in Science Communication
Sykes has played a pivotal role in shaping how science is presented to the public in the UK. She helped create and currently co-directs the Cheltenham Science Festival, as well as Famelab, a national competition designed to identify and train emerging talent in science communication—the practice of informing, educating, and inspiring the public about scientific concepts.
Her leadership extends to institutional management, having served as the Head of Science for Explore-At-Bristol. In this role, she led the team responsible for developing content for the award-winning Hands-on Science Centre, emphasizing interactive learning.
Policy Influence and Advisory Roles
Beyond public events, Sykes contributes to high-level policy decisions. She is a member of the Council for Science and Technology (CST), which serves as the UK government's primary advisory body on science and technology policy issues.
Her expertise is frequently sought by prestigious organizations. She has served on public engagement advisory panels for the Royal Society, the Wellcome Trust, and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). Additionally, she contributes her governance skills as a trustee of NESTA and as a board member of Explore-At-Bristol.
| Category | Organization/Award | Role/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Festivals & Competitions | Cheltenham Science Festival & Famelab | Co-founder and Co-director |
| Government | Council for Science and Technology (CST) | Member |
| Institutional | Explore-At-Bristol | Former Head of Science; Board Member |
| Honours | Order of the British Empire (OBE) | Appointed 2009 |
| Academic | University of Gloucestershire | Honorary Doctor of Science & Fellowship |
Awards and Recognition
The impact of Sykes' work has been recognized through numerous prestigious accolades. In 2006, she received the Kohn Award for her excellence in engaging the public with science. Her commitment to the field was further highlighted in 2013 when she won the Suffrage Science award.
In recognition of her contributions to the field and society, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) during the 2009 Birthday Honours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Famelab?
Famelab is a national UK competition co-directed by Sykes that focuses on spotting and training new talent in the field of science communication.
What is the role of the Council for Science and Technology (CST)?
The CST is the top-level advisory body for the UK government, providing expert guidance on science and technology policy issues.
Which academic honors has Sykes received?
Sykes holds an honorary fellowship and an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Gloucestershire.
What was her role at Explore-At-Bristol?
She served as the Head of Science, where she managed the team creating content for the Hands-on Science Centre, and she also serves as a board member.
When was she appointed OBE?
Sykes was appointed Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2009 Birthday Honours.