Sky at Night scientist unveiled as university’s new Chancellor
SPACE scientist and presenter of the BBC’s The Sky at Night, Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, says she is “delighted” to be the new Chancellor of the University of Leicester.
The appointment is the latest chapter in Dr Aderin-Pocock’s inspiring rise from an unsettled early life, which saw her diagnosed with dyslexia and attend 13 different schools, to a nationally recognised science communicator.
Committed to inspiring new generations of astronauts, engineers, and scientists, Dr Aderin-Pocock, pictured, has spoken to around 25,000 children, many of them at inner city schools, telling them how and why she became a scientist, busting myths about careers, class, and gender.
Best-known for her television work, which sees her co-present The Sky at Night and children’s science shows, Dr Aderin-Pocock holds a degree in physics and a PhD in mechanical engineering.
She has spent her career making novel, bespoke instrumentation in both the industrial and academic environments, ranging from handheld land mine detectors to subsystems for the James Webb Space Telescope.
“I am both delighted, and truly honoured, to be appointed Chancellor of the University of Leicester,” said Dr Aderin-Pocock.
“I’m joining the university at an incredibly exciting time, as it embarks on its second century, with a well-deserved reputation as one of the UK’s top research-intensive universities.
“With our shared passion for space, I am particularly excited about the research the university is conducting at its new Space Park.”
In 2009, Dr Aderin-Pocock was awarded an MBE for her work as a science communicator, breaking down complex scientific issues into simple information that everyone can understand, and for her outreach to young people. A decade later, she was awarded the Woman of the Year award for innovation.
She is the first African woman to win a gold medal in the Physics News Award and is reaching the end of her presidency of the British Science Association. In 2018, she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the University of Leicester.
Dr Aderin-Pocock added: “This is an inclusive institution with a fine track record in opening up access to higher education to students from all walks of life – something I am very keen to see us build on. I am extremely excited to join the university in this role.
“The university was founded and funded by the people of Leicester as a living memorial to honour those who made sacrifices during the Great War.
“One hundred years on, I am truly honoured to be Chancellor and looking forward to build on that legacy, ensuring a warm welcome and diverse community within the university that reflects the wonderful city that help start it.”
Dr Aderin-Pocock will succeed The Rt Hon the Lord Willetts as the University’s eighth Chancellor on 1 February, 2023.
University President and ViceChancellor, Professor Nishan Canagarajah, said: “Dr Aderin-Pocock was the outstanding candidate when we were looking for somebody who could inspire the next generation of students and researchers.”
The office of Chancellor is held by a distinguished individual, from academia or public life. The five-year role is largely ceremonial and sees them presiding at major ceremonies.
PRESENTER IS ‘DELIGHTED’ AT NEW CITY ROLE