Patricia presents her research to Parliament

A CITY academic has presented her research to Parliament after being shortlisted in an annual competeition highlighting the importance of STEM subjects.

Dr Patricia Rodriguez-Macia, a lecturer (assistant professor) at the University of Leicester, presented her chemistry research to a range of politicians on the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, alongside a panel of expert judges.

Patricia’s research about development of new biohybrid catalysts for green chemistry and energy sustainability was judged against dozens of other scientists’ research in STEM for Britain, the only national competition of its kind.

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Patricia, pictured, who was shortlisted from of applicants, said: “I was really excited to present my science to the members of Parliament and discuss the important contribution that chemistry can have in our transition to a more sustainable future.

“I was thrilled to meet other early-career researchers and learn about their science, as well as meeting the MPs and get a feeling of how is one day in the Parliament life”

Stephen Metcalfe MP, chairman of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, said: “This annual competition is an important date in the parliamentary calendar because it gives MPs an opportunity to speak to a wide range of the country’s best young researchers.

“These early career engineers, mathematicians and scientists are the architects of our future and STEM for Britain is politicians’ best opportunity to meet them and understand their work.”

Patricia’s research was entered into the chemistry section of the competition, which will end in a gold, silver and bronze prizegiving ceremony.

Judged by leading academics, each winner will receive a cash prize with a medal for the gold recipient.

The Parliamentary and Scientific Committee runs the event in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Institute of Physics, the Royal Society of Biology, The Physiological Society, The Nutrition Society and the Council for the Mathematical Sciences.