March 26th: Today’s Feature

March

Dame Margaret Ebunoluwa Aderin-Pocock DBE, formerly known as Aderin, was born on March 9, 1968, in the United Kingdom. She is a renowned space scientist and science educator, holding the prestigious position of honorary research associate at University College London's Department of Physics and Astronomy. Additionally, she has been serving as the chancellor of the University of Leicester since March 1, 2023.

Notably, Dame Margaret Aderin-Pocock has been a co-presenter on the popular astronomy television show, The Sky at Night, alongside Chris Lintott since February 2014. Her contributions to the field of physics and her dedication to public engagement were recognised in 2020 when she received the Institute of Physics William Thomson, Lord Kelvin Medal and Prize. This award highlighted her exceptional efforts in promoting physics to a wider audience.

Breaking barriers and making history, Dame Margaret became the first black woman to receive the Physics News Award gold medal. Furthermore, she held the prestigious position of president of the British Science Association from 2021 to 2022, further solidifying her impact and influence in the scientific community. Her achievements and contributions continue to inspire future generations, showcasing the importance of diversity and representation in the field of science.

Early Life & Education

Margaret Ebunoluwa Aderin, born in London on 9 March 1968 to Nigerian parents, Caroline Philips and Justus Adebayo Aderin, grew up in Camden, London. Her middle name, Ebunoluwa, originates from the Yoruba words "ebun" meaning "gift" and Oluwa meaning "God", akin to "Oluwabunmi" or "Olubunmi", signifying "gift of God" in Yoruba. She attended La Sainte Union Convent School in North London and is dyslexic.

Despite being discouraged by a teacher from pursuing her dream of becoming an astronaut due to dyslexia, she excelled academically, obtaining A-Levels in maths, physics, chemistry, and biology. Margaret went on to study at Imperial College London, earning a BSc in physics in 1990 and completing her PhD in mechanical engineering in 1994 under the guidance of Hugh Spikes.

Her doctoral research focused on developing an ultra-thin film measurement system using spectroscopy and interferometry with a remarkable resolution of 2.5 nm, a significant improvement over existing techniques limited to the micron level. The enhancements in optical performance, mechanical design, and software development led to the commercialisation of the instrument by a spin-off company from Imperial College University, PCS Instruments.

Career & Research

Aderin-Pocock has an extensive background in various sectors, including private industry, academia, and government. She has contributed to projects ranging from aircraft missile warning systems to developing instruments for detecting landmines.

In addition to her work on high-resolution spectrographs for telescopes, she has managed observation instruments for the Aeolus satellite, focusing on measuring wind speeds for climate change research.

Aderin-Pocock is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of astronauts, engineers, and scientists, particularly through her efforts in science communication with school children. She actively engages with young people through her company, Science Innovation Ltd, and serves as a judge at the National Science + Engineering Competition to encourage scientific pursuits among youth.

Aderin-Pocock has been involved in various television programs such as Paradox, Doctor Who Confidential, Do We Really Need the Moon?, The Sky at Night, Stargazing, and Out of This World.

She has also made appearances on shows like Would I Lie to You?, Dara O Briain's Go 8 Bit, Richard Osman's House of Games, and QI.

Aderin-Pocock has held research fellowships at UCL Department of Science and Technology Studies, supported by Science in Society fellowships funded by STFC, PPARC, and STFC. She was recognised as one of the "Women of Outstanding Achievement" winners with GetSET Women in 2006.

Ephraim Hardcastle's diary column in the Daily Mail, the pseudonymously, caused controversy in 2014 when it claimed that Aderin-Pocock and Hiranya Peiris were chosen to discuss the BICEP-2 experiment on Newsnight due to their gender and ethnicity. This claim was widely condemned by mainstream media, the Royal Astronomical Society, and their university, University College London. The Daily Mail soon retracted their statement shortly after, acknowledging that the women were selected based on their high qualifications in their respective fields.

Aderin-Pocock holds an honorary research associate position in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at University College London.

In 2020-21, she served as a commissioner on the UK Government's Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities (CRED). The commission's report, which stated that the country is not institutionally racist, sparked controversy as experts argued that it misrepresented evidence and disregarded recommendations from business leaders. Aderin-Pocock clarified that the report did not deny the existence of institutional racism but stated that the commission did not find evidence of it in the areas it had examined.

Since December 2021, Aderin-Pocock has been involved in the Channel 4 game show I Literally Just Told You as a question-setter.

Honours

Aderin-Pocock received the prestigious honour of being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2009 New Year Honours for her outstanding contributions to science education. Later, in the 2024 New Year Honours, she was further recognised for her dedication to science education and diversity by being elevated to the rank of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE).

Throughout the years, Aderin-Pocock has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades for her remarkable work in the field of science education. In 2005, she was awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" by the Champions Club UK, followed by an Honorary Doctor of Science from Staffordshire University in 2009 for her significant contributions to the field of science education.

2011 – Winner of the "New Talent" award from the WFTV (Women in

           Film and Television)

2012 – UK Powerlist, listed as one of the UK top 100 most influential

           black people

2013 – UK Power List, listed as one of the UK top 10 most influential

           black people

2013 – Yale University Centre for Dyslexia "Out of the box thinking

           award"

2014 – Honorary Doctor of Science, University of Bath

2016 – Powerlist Ranked sixth most influential Black Briton

2017 – Honorary Doctor of Science, Loughborough University

2018 – Honorary Doctor of Science, University of Leicester

2020 – Institute of Physics William Thomson, Lord Kelvin Medal and Prize

           for her public engagement in physics

2023 - In a testament to her influence and impact, Mattel honoured Aderin-Pocock by creating a Barbie doll in her likeness to celebrate International Women's Day. This gesture not only recognises her achievements but also serves as an inspiration to young girls around the world, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the field of science.

In March 2010, Aderin-Pocock had the opportunity to share insights about her life during an interview on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs. This platform allowed her to delve into her personal experiences and shed light on her journey as a prominent figure in the field of science. Additionally, Aderin-Pocock has been the focus of several biographical articles that celebrate and highlight the achievements of women in the scientific community.

Personal

Aderin-Pocock's personal life took a significant turn in 2002 when she tied the knot with Martin Pocock. Together, they have been blessed with a daughter named Lauren, who was born in 2010.

Aderin-Pocock's dedication to her family and her scientific endeavours highlights her remarkable skill in managing and harmonising the different facets of her life. She demonstrates a strong sense of commitment not only to her loved ones but also to her passion for scientific exploration, showing that it is possible to excel in both personal and professional realms simultaneously.