7 January 2025 – Jess Wade

(Re-)Writing the history of women in science

In her talk for Engaging Issues, Jess will talk about her work in writing about under-represented scientists and engineers on Wikipedia, and the need for greater diversity in science. She will set out the case for role models in attracting talented people into science and engineering.

Jess will consider the issues and systems that have brought us to a place where minor 'celebrities' get wider coverage than many of those who have made major contributions to the modern world, and how we can and must do better. And if time allows, Jess will take a selection from the 2000+ biographies that she has written, to enthuse about "Five amazing female scientists you’ve probably never heard of."

Jess Wade

Dr Jess Wade is a Royal Society University Research Fellow and Lecturer in Functional Materials in the Department of Materials at Imperial College London. Her research considers new materials for optoelectronic devices and quantum technologies, with a focus on chiral systems and the identification of strategies to control photon and electron spin.

Outside of the lab, Jess is involved with several science communication and outreach initiatives. She is committed to improving diversity in science, both online and offline. In 2019, Jess was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to gender diversity in science.