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Katherine Mathieson

@kathmath.bsky.social
454 followers 600 following 56 posts

Science, innovation, sci-comm, charity sector, London Director: Royal Institution Trustee: Pilotlight, Enthuse Trust

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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Sense about Science @senseaboutsci.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Why do some people trust scientists more than others? How can scientists earn and keep that trust? With @policyatkings.bsky.social and @wellcometrust.bsky.social we commissioned a major UK survey to establish the state of trust in science - and learn what researchers can do to build and retain it
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
A classic from Frank Close: open.spotify.com/episode/24OC...
open.spotify.com
From the Theatre: What is a solar eclipse? - with Frank Close
Ri Science Podcast · Episode
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 28/07/2026
We are saddened to hear about the risks to Jodrell Bank’s public funding. Without underplaying the challenge of meeting rising research costs on a fixed budget, Jodrell Bank is rare in being a place where the public can see and feel the impact of research for themselves. (1/2)
Satellite dishes at the Jodrell Bank Observatory
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Told my colleague I had "time for ideas" and she was like 'wow, that's an amazing thought' Thought she was taking the mick but then it turned out she mis-heard as "time-fried ears"... (thx to AI for the definition and image)
Woman with large green ears looking stressed and overwhelmed while loads of people ask her to do stuff
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
Still feeling very philosophical and calm following @jomarchant.bsky.social’s mesmerising talk last night about the elusive ‘now’ jomarchant.com/in-search-of...
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 05/05/2026
For the first time ever, the Ri Demo team are bringing their explosive presence to the mass video gaming experience of WiFi Wars! Join them for a one-of-a-kind summer spectacular show mixing science, comedy and retro gaming ☀️ Book now 👇
rigb.org
WiFi Wars Summer Spectacular 2026
WiFi Wars are back for a very special summer celebration, combining all the usual interactive digital fun with the unique Ri
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 29/04/2026
A fungus that can control an animal’s behaviour sounds like science fiction, but it’s very real. 🐜 Join us for an immersive event blending neuroscience, mycology and live performance, as scientists and artists come together to uncover one of nature’s strangest systems.
rigb.org
Zombie Ant Fungus: The chemistry of control
The Ri is proud to host a radical new science performance blending neuroscience, mycology, sound, behaviour and music.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 29/04/2026
Completely agree with tonight’s panelists @foundscitech.bsky.social: space is that rare topic that can be both awe-inspiring and relevant to everyday life to public audiences #scicomm #space #spaceeconomy
foundscitech.bsky.social
The Foundation for Science and Technology (@foundscitech.bsky.social)
We bring together Government, Parliament, the research community, and industry to identify science and technology issues and influence decision makers. We are a registered charity.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 23/01/2026
Anyone got experience of this training course? I don't know the institution at all and the AI-description is a bit of a red flag - but I definitely think there's a gap in the market for a really good training course on this topic #STEMOutreach #Evaluation www.lcft.org.uk/Home/CourseD...
lcft.org.uk
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 20/01/2026
The results of the first Public Attitudes to Science Survey since the pandemic were published today 👇 www.rigb.org/explore-scie...
rigb.org
Public Attitudes to Science survey highlights golden opportunity to bring scientists and the public together
Read about the latest Public Attitudes to Science survey.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 20/01/2026
Many predicted that Covid would drive up trust in science *or* fuel a backlash against ‘science experts’. The latest #PAS data seems to show neither of these things has happened; trust in science remains fairly high overall – but it is in decline and showing signs of weakness pas.ipsos.com
pas.ipsos.com
Public Attitudes to Science |
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 19/01/2026
Roland Jackson 1954-2026 (@rolandjackson.bsky.social): a life well-lived and a lasting impact www.rigb.org/explore-scie...
rigb.org
In memory of Sir Roland Jackson, 1954-2026
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Research Adjacent / Sarah McLusky @researchadjacent.bsky.social · 02/12/2025
New episode 🥳 Join me for a trip to The Royal Institution in the company of Director @kathmath.bsky.social We talk about her career in sci-comm, the many faces of The Royal Institution, the iconic Christmas Lectures, and why we all need a bit more awe and wonder in our lives. buff.ly/uGrszXk
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Research Adjacent / Sarah McLusky @researchadjacent.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
Is awe and wonder a good enough reason to invest money and effort in science communication? 😯 @kathmath.bsky.social thinks it is! In an era of mis- and disinformation connecting with people emotionally might help break down barriers. Hear Katherine's take on the state of #scicomm buff.ly/uGrszXk
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
If you know a researcher whose work should feature on Radio4 - technology, humanities, social sciences & arts - consider telling them to apply for the AHRC BBC New Generation Thinkers scheme www.ukri.org/opportunity/...
ukri.org
AHRC and BBC New Generation Thinkers 2026
This scheme offers five early career researchers the opportunity to work with programme makers at BBC Radio 4. They will appear on a number of episodes and shadow the production process to understand ...
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 11/11/2025
#EmbraceStorytelling in response to new data showing only 29% of the public feel science R&D is relevant to their own lives, from Campaign for Science & Engineering
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
Sad news. Jane Goodall was an inspirational science communicator and a brilliant campaigner. We and all the other primates were lucky to have her
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
Xmas wish list is sorted thanks to the @royalsociety.org Trivedi Science Book Prize! royalsociety.org/medals-and-p...
royalsociety.org
Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize | Royal Society
Each year our panel of expert judges, comprising eminent scientists, authors, journalists and broadcasters, choose the book that they believe makes popular science writing compelling and accessible to...
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 22/09/2025
Looking for tips on public speaking? Here's a couple of classics from Michael Faraday, on his birthday as it happens, as part of our celebration of 200 years of Discourses @rigb.org lims.ac.uk/perspectives... #scicomm
lims.ac.uk
Friday night live
In the Idler, our writer Thomas Hodgkinson pays tribute to the Royal Institution’s Friday Evening Discourses, which turn 200 this year.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
Can the Northern Lights help us find liquid water on Jupiter's Moons? Marina Galand @rigb.org www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGcY...
youtube.com
How the Northern Lights link Earth to Jupiter - with Marina Galand
YouTube video by The Royal Institution
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Alice Roberts @profaliceroberts.bsky.social · 30/08/2025
For over 25 years, science and discovery centres have been at the heart of inspiring millions of people to explore, question, and be part of UK science and technology. But they're seriously under threat… 1/3
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 15/09/2025
Fascinating talk by Yang-Hui He @rigb.org tonight on how AI is supporting and challenging the world’s best mathematicians (and, maybe very soon, leading them?) #LIMS #AI #Mathematics
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 29/08/2025
New classroom/enrichment resources on the maths of voting, in time for plans to extend the vote to 16 and 17-year-olds www.rigb.org/shelf-master... #schools #STEM #Maths #education
rigb.org
Off-the-Shelf Masterclass: Maths of Voting
Uncover the mathematical basis behind the process of voting, a key part of living in a democratic society.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 27/08/2025
So proud of my @rigb.org colleagues today (well, every day, but especially today!) royalsociety.org/medals-and-p...
rigb.org
Home
The Royal Institution is an independent charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science, inspiring them to think more deeply about science and its place in our lives.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 22/08/2025
"A lot of scientists have taken it for grants that people know why they should trust science" - Prof. Naomi Oreskes on public mistrust of science www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbTH...
youtube.com
Misinformation and distrust in science - with Naomi Oreskes
YouTube video by The Royal Institution
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 23/07/2025
Old enough to remember MC Hammer? Here's why that matters to maths....from the marvellous Prof Nira Chamberlain www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtRL...
Blurred image of 80s rap artist MC Hammer ("U can't touch this") on stage wearing voluminous trousers
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
Everything you wanted to know about the chemistry of Star Wars, with Alex Baker youtu.be/zvyW-6MMDjM?...
youtu.be
The chemistry of Star Wars - with Alex Baker
YouTube video by The Royal Institution
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Undaunted: Tackling climate change with innovation @undaunted-hq.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
Introducing: The Greenhouse Pitch Pod! 🌱 Undaunted is launching sessions for early-stage ClimateTech founders to pitch and receive *radically honest, constructive feedback* from The Greenhouse. A pressure-free space to test your story, get clear-eyed advice, and learn from others. Learn more 👀⬇️
Greenhouse Pitch Pod: monthly feedback sessions for early-stage climate tech founders
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 19/06/2025
Great opportunity for venues, #theatres, #universities, #museums and #ScienceCentres across the UK
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 19/06/2025
Show the 2025 Christmas Lectures LIVE as they're being filmed! 🎥 🧪 We are looking for venues keen to invite their local audiences behind the scenes of the world-famous science lectures – including universities, science centres and planetariums. www.rigb.org/explore-scie...
rigb.org
Royal Institution invites interest from CHRISTMAS LECTURES livestream partners
The Royal Institution (Ri) has today invited expressions of interest from organisations to livestream the 200th CHRISTMA
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 16/06/2025
The story of benzene shows the far-reaching impact of curiosity-driven science. Faraday’s 'pure research' laid the groundwork for massive scientific and industrial advances. #OnThisDay in 1825, Michael Faraday presented his findings on this chemical compound. History #thread👇🧪
Faraday's sample of benzene, a tiny vial with almost colourless liquid
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 13/06/2025
Are you drowsing off in the London heat? Does it matter if you sleep now rather than later? youtu.be/KZJAmcpc9SE?...
youtu.be
How does your body clock work? - with Aarti Jagannath
YouTube video by The Royal Institution
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Gianamar Giovannetti-Singh @gianamar97.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
Curious about the global history of science? I talked to the @ri-science.bsky.social podcast about globalising our stories of the sciences. Listen here: open.spotify.com/episode/1vRS...
open.spotify.com
De-westernizing the history of science - with Gianamar Giovannetti-Singh
Ri Science Podcast · Episode
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
The Royal Society @royalsociety.org · 29/05/2025
It's not long now until the #SummerScience Exhibition returns! Come face-to-face with spiders, delve into the quantum realm and discover cutting-edge research, fascinating talks and exciting activities for all ages. Join us from 1-6 July: royalsociety.org/science-even...
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 01/06/2025
Someone asked me the other day which elements are the ones first discovered at the @ri-science.bsky.social and embarrassingly, I couldn't name them all! I think I need a mnemonic to help me remember...
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 06/05/2025
State schools can now apply for free Science in Schools days for the 2025-26 academic year! 📣 www.rigb.org/explore-scie...
rigb.org
Royal Institution opens applications for free Science in Schools days
Find out more about the Ri's 2025 Science in Schools programme
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 14/05/2025
Perhaps surprisingly, one of the most frequently referenced phrases in a roundtable discussion on 'science and soft power' I attended yesterday was "liberal values". Or perhaps that's not so surprising? Thanks to the British Foreign Policy Group for a fascinating discussion!
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 05/05/2025
Anyone know of a reasonably recent datset on ethnicity or race for the working-age population of London? Asking to help with benchmarking staff diversity for a small charity (not the day job). Thanks!
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
BIG - STEM Communicators Network, UK @big-stem-network.bsky.social · 05/05/2025
Today is the final day to get your early bird tickets for the BIG Event! Join more than 100 other science communicators from across the UK and Europe who will be arriving at the @ri-science.bsky.social this July! From tomorrow, prices rise, so get in there quick!
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Philip Ball @philipcball.bsky.social · 13/04/2025
With this column today, I learn that Robin McKie is stepping down as science correspondent for The Observer. It's impossible to overstate how legendary Robin is, and this column, with its solid defence of science and celebration of its wonder, is typically astute. www.theguardian.com/science/2025...
theguardian.com
What I’ve learned after 40 years as the Observer’s science editor
Almost as amazing as the knowledge we have gained in the past four decades is the fact that some people continue to deny the damage we are doing to our world
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 09/04/2025
NEW VIDEO The power of visualisation is important to the advancement of theoretical physics. Physicist Jim Gates describes his efforts to create a clearer understanding of quantum gravity using adinkras, West African traditional symbols. Watch now: youtu.be/KsNIl8_PVTo
Jim Gates lecturing at the Ri. Text on image reads: A life in physics, from Faraday to Feynman
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 09/04/2025
What is #AI and how is it different from a brain? Join Geoffrey Hinton, Nobel prizewinner and 'godfather of AI', at @ri-science.bsky.social on 30 May www.rigb.org/whats-on/dis...
rigb.org
Discourse: Digital intelligence vs biological intelligence
2024 Nobel winner Geoffrey Hinton explains what AI has learned, and is still learning, from biological intelligence.
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 28/03/2025
Couple of fantastic vacancies at @ri-science.bsky.social. Know someone who'd like the manage the iconic Christmas Lectures? Or the Ri's wonderful families programme? www.rigb.org/about-us/wor... #scicomm
rigb.org
Work with us
Help us create more opportunities for everyone to discover, discuss and critically examine science and the way it shapes our
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 14/03/2025
Excited to be working with Maggie on the iconic CHRISTMAS LECTURES!
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 11/03/2025
Messy: the Brownies concocting their own sherbert recipes for #BSW25 #ScienceWeek #gloop
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 11/03/2025
Reminds of my mother when I had some urgent need for a new toy/outing/frivolity, “do you think I’m made of money?!”
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Reposted by Katherine Mathieson
Royal Institution @rigb.org · 07/03/2025
It's our birthday! 🎂 The Royal Institution was founded on this day in 1799 for "the teaching by courses of Philosophical Lectures and Experiments, the application of Science to the Common Purposes of Life". In this 1985 video, George Porter shows us Faraday's lab, which you can still visit today
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 05/03/2025
You know you work @ri-science.bsky.social when the message about snacks in the office kitchen has a follow-up to clarify that, ok yes, the watermelon *was* used in the spectacular theatre show earlier, but it's still fine to eat
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 03/03/2025
Every time I buy materials for the Brownies activities for British Science Week from Amazon, my recommendations go weird for weeks afterwards #BSW25 #BritishScienceWeek
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Katherine Mathieson @kathmath.bsky.social · 26/02/2025
If your research organisation is planning to bid for NERC's Opening Up The Environment grant call, consider @ri-science.bsky.social as a partner www.ukri.org/opportunity/...
ukri.org
Opening up the Environment 2025
Apply for funding to:
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