From the Nominator

"Cuppa with a Scientist is a podcast by Loughborough University that aims to dispel the myth that all scientists wear white lab coats. It strives to show young people how vast science is. 

As the pandemic highlighted, STEM skills and roles are important not only for the future of our country, but our planet. Yet young people still report they do not know what to do to pursue a career in STEM. There are also concerns that they are not aware of all the roles that exist in the sector. In addition, there is a gender gap in STEM careers, which can fuel misconceptions of what a scientist looks like. 

Aimed at 15- to 18-year-olds, Cuppa with a Scientist looks to inspire young people to explore STEM subjects and highlight that science is for everyone. It also promotes research and academics at Loughborough University to the media. Each show sees aspiring biologist and PR Officer Meg Cox interview scientists with diverse backgrounds about their academic journey to the top over a good cuppa.  

From health sciences to environmental sciences, the podcast hosts guests from a range of fields. Meg asks them about their early studies, career highs and lows, research, and more. Guests also share advice for students considering working in science.  

The podcast has achieved all we hoped for and more, and has received support from the likes of National Geographic. One female teen even said she was inspired to pursue a STEM subject after hearing the show!"

From the Judges

Aimed at 15- to 18-year-olds eyeing a career in STEM, this charming podcast—hosted by lively PR officer and aspiring biologist Meg Cox—offers an entertaining and accessible look at the work of Loughborough’s science professors. Educational but lighthearted (Meg asks each of her guests to share an object that represents their research), the conversational Cuppa is low-budget but high impact, even catching the eye of National Geographic. We found this Cuppa refreshing.