Celebration of Science 2025: Honouring Excellence Across the Science Workforce

The Science Council’s annual Celebration of Science took place on Tuesday 2nd December 2025, bringing together professionals from across the scientific landscape to recognise the individuals and organisations who are driving progress, championing professionalism, and elevating the science workforce.

Each year, the event provides an invaluable opportunity to celebrate excellence, share ideas, and acknowledge the remarkable contributions that strengthen the scientific community. This year, we were delighted to unveil the newly updated Recognition Awards, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and to recognising the full breadth of talent across the science sector.

The evening featured a keynote lecture from Professor Liz Bentley, Chief Executive of the Royal Meteorological Society (RMetS).
Professor Bentley delivered a compelling exploration of the challenges and successes in modern science communication. Drawing on RMetS’ pioneering climate change communication training, she demonstrated how equipping scientists with effective tools to engage the public can deepen understanding, inspire behaviour change and build trust. She highlighted that strong communication is essential if the scientific community is to inform, empower and drive meaningful action.

Recognising our 2025 Recognition Award Nominees

This year marked the launch of our refreshed Recognition Awards, designed to better reflect the diversity of scientific roles, experiences and contributions across the UK. The revised model ensures that outstanding individuals and teams from every part of the science workforce can be celebrated.

We were proud to acknowledge all nominees at the event. Each nomination represents exceptional dedication, professional excellence and a commitment to advancing science for societal benefit. Their achievements illustrate the strength and diversity of the UK’s scientific community.

Congratulations to our 2025 Award Winners

A huge congratulations to all our winners, whose leadership, expertise and passion exemplify the values of the Science Council. Their work sets benchmarks for excellence and inspires current and future generations across the science workforce.

Apprentice Ambassador Award

Amin Mirza – Institute of Cancer Research

CSci Award

Prof. Andy Lane (FCASES) – The Chartered Association for Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES)

CSciTeach Award

Helen Harden – Association for Science Education

Elevating the Science Workforce Award (Team)

Robert Cast, Gemma Norburn, Christian Burt & Samantha Bell – Association of Anatomical Pathology Technology

Elevating the Science Workforce Award (Individual)

Niru Dorrian – Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST)

RSci Award

Jamie Mewburn-Crook – Institute of Physics (IOP)

RSciTech Award

Jane Oldham – Association for Science Education (ASE)

Volunteer Award

Sophie Dunajko – Science Council Volunteer

The Celebration of Science brought together registrants from a wide range of disciplines, alongside representatives from professional bodies, academia, industry and government. It was a powerful reminder of the connectivity and collaboration that underpin scientific progress.

Thank you

We extend our sincere thanks to all those who continue to support the Science Council’s mission – our volunteers, registrants, nominees, winners and the wider scientific community. Your contributions uphold professional standards, advance scientific practice, and elevate the visibility and impact of the science workforce across the UK.

Congratulations once again to all our 2025 winners and thank you for everything you do to champion the science workforce.