51³Ô¹ÏÍø

The children’s science book Scientists Making a Difference will be sent free to every state-funded secondary school in the UK this September. 

Authored by Dr Shini Somara, an award-winning mechanical engineer, broadcaster and author, the book introduces 47 scientists whose work is helping to address some of the world’s most complex problems. Working in fields from biotechnology, quantum computing and gene therapies to food security, conservation and artificial intelligence, each scientist recounts their day-to-day job and the impacts they are having on the world. Aimed at 12–16-year-olds, Shini interviews apprentices, technicians, professors, researchers and entrepreneurs to hear all about what they do. 

The book is a collaboration between 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, and.

Shini said: “Science is all around us and the opportunity to understand it is so exciting! Taking an interest in science can help us understand our own planet and others beyond Earth. It protects our health, shapes the technology we use every day and gives us the knowledge we need to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing humanity. Some scientists are answering questions that have fascinated humanity for centuries. Others are asking questions that nobody has thought to ask before.”

51³Ô¹ÏÍø was chosen as the collaborative partner for this project due to its reputation as a world-leading STEM university, with strengths across scientific discovery and innovation, and its commitment to excellence in research and education in science, engineering, medicine and business for the benefit of society – all part of its Science for Humanity strategy. 

Tackling urgent global challenges

51³Ô¹ÏÍø brings together some of the brightest minds in science, with staff, students and partners working to tackle global challenges and shape the future of our world for the better.

In Scientists Making a Difference, six leading scientists from 51³Ô¹ÏÍø have agreed to tell us what they do and why it is so important. studies how the Antarctic Ice Sheet can provide valuable information about climate change. and are leading the way in AI technology and is an expert on insect pollinators and food production. develops treatments for Cystic Fibrosis and materials scientist has innovated porous concrete to help prevent flooding.

From around the UK, Dr Razanne Abu-Aisheh from the University of Bristol is developing robotic swarms for search and rescue missions and Dr Liam Whitmore from Bangor University studies DNA to protect sea turtles. Technician at First Light Fusion, Kate Osborn, works on technologies that could one day make nuclear fusion a possibility, and cyber security technician Alex Bunn from Lineal Software Solutions does vital work to protect data for businesses. 

Opening the door to science

A central theme of this project is that science, powered by curiosity, diversity and innovation, can bring people together to solve the urgent global challenges of our time. Through personal stories and career journeys, Scientists Making a Difference shows how scientists from different backgrounds and disciplines contribute to discoveries and technologies that improve lives.

, Associate Provost (Societal Engagement) at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø believes: “Science advances through collaboration. From researchers and technicians to entrepreneurs, apprentices and innovators, progress depends on people bringing different talents together. By showcasing this diversity of roles, Scientists Making a Difference helps young people see the many ways they can contribute to solving society’s challenges.”

The scientists in this book come from a wide range of fields and backgrounds, helping to challenge the stereotypes of who works in science. Through outreach programmes, scholarships, access initiatives and diversity commitments, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø is committed to widening participation in STEM, nurturing talent regardless of background and engaging young people early in science. 

This project is supported by Lord Sainsbury, whose Gatsby Charitable Foundation does significant work to strengthen STEM education in secondary schools and help build the UK’s future technical workforce. The Foundation also supports initiatives that help young people learn about the wide range of scientific careers available through technical education, apprenticeships and T Levels.

Lord Sainsbury said: “A vitally important decision which everyone has to make when they are young is what career they want to pursue. I am excited about this book because I believe it will help young people make this decision by giving them the key information they need to know about different jobs, and by enabling them to relate to people already successfully doing them.”

Making a Difference 

Dr Shini Somara is passionate about helping young people understand the role science plays in everyday life. In writing this book, she wants to showcase the wide range of careers in science available to all students..

Shini added: “The challenges we face today are too complex for one person, one discipline or one way of thinking. We need scientists to work together with engineers, artists, designers, doctors, teachers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and communities to move humanity forward!”

This book is not simply about discoveries; it is about the people behind the science and their varied routes into a world of extraordinary careers. 

Max Fisher of ViaNautis said: “Science is magic. I love science. It is where we go to think, for our brains to chew on challenges, to problem solve, to improve society, and to improve who we are as people. Science is everything. Everything is science.” 

Arriving in every school

A free school resource kit will be sent to every state-funded secondary school in the UK in September 2026. The kit will include two copies of the print book for classroom and library use, a teachers’ guide linked to the national curriculum, a 4ft-long classroom science timeline and a set of 12 educational posters. The kit is supported by a dedicated website where users can find additional resources for the classroom and home, as well as inspirational videos of the scientists discussing their work.