👏 Congratulations Erin! 🎉

Erin’s chosen PhD in gut parasites has both fascinated and grossed out students.

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A few words from Erin

A big thank you to all students who voted for me! It was such a lovely surprise to learn I was this term’s winner.

I’m a Scientist chats are a highlight of my day. Every chat is unique, filled with great questions, thoughtful discussions, and good laughs! Whether we chat about careers, research, or our favourite videogames, it is always such a wonderful experience. Thank you to all students and teachers who have been involved in the programme.

I am always amazed by the enthusiasm and individuality that shines through from students. I researched mucus and parasites for my PhD, which is not particularly glamorous. It is really rewarding to get so much interest in my favourite topics, even when it’s an “ewwwww”! I have even had questions that have stumped me, making me go back to research papers and textbooks to try and find the answers. Through these chats, I get to teach so many of you about what science and research is, but I also learn so much in return!

I joined the programme in 2023, about halfway through my PhD. In November last year, I got my Dr title, and I now work helping other researchers to explain their work in fun ways to the public and schools! I owe much of my experience and growth as a science communicator to my time with I’m a Scientist.

Thank you to the I’m a Scientist team and the funders for keeping this programme going. It is so easy to see how much these chats contribute to students’ knowledge about science.

I have a lot of ideas and plans of how I’d like to keep bringing my love of slime science to the public. I plan to use the prize money for equipment to host interactive science sessions in schools and communities with less access to science. 

Thank you all so much once again!

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How is the winner chosen?

Each student has one vote to give to a scientist each academic year, and whoever gets the most votes, wins! It’s as simple as that.

But wait, there’s more: the winner earns £500 to spend in further STEM engagement!

Want to choose who wins the £500? Vote for your favourite scientist on the Vote Page! 🗳️