Southampton scientists take their science to Parliament

Three PhD research students at the University of Southampton have attended Parliament this week to present their science to a range of politicians and a panel of expert judges, as part of SET for Britain.

Priyanth Mehta, Sumiaty Ambran and Dominic Wales presented their research about nonlinear photonics in semiconductor fibres, flat optical fibre and smart sensors respectively, are competing against dozens of other scientists’ research in the only national competition of its kind.

The trio from the ORC were shortlisted from hundreds of applicants to appear in Parliament.

On discussing his opportunity to present his research in Parliament, Priyanth said: “SET for Britain provides me with a face-to-face opportunity to present ground breaking research to our funding bodies.â€?

Andrew Miller MP, Chairman of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, explained: “This annual competition is an important date in the parliamentary calendar because it gives MPs an opportunity to speak to a wide range of the country’s best young researchers.  

“These early career scientists are the architects of our future and SET for Britain is politicians’ best opportunity to meet them and understand their work.â€?

Priyanth, Sumiaty and Dominic's research has been entered into the Physics session of the competition, which will end in a gold, silver and bronze prize-giving ceremony.

Judged by leading academics, the gold medalist receives £3,000, while silver and bronze receive £2,000 and £1,000 respectively.

Sumiaty commented: "It's great to gain recognition for our work and be given a forum to present and discuss our ideas with industry influencers." 

The Parliamentary and Scientific Committee run the event in collaboration with The Royal Academy of Engineering, The Institute of Physics, the Society of Biology, The Royal Society of Chemistry, the Physiological Society, the Wellcome Trust and the Society of Chemical Industry, with financial support from BP, Airbus/EADS, The Institution of Engineering and Technology, AgChem Access, Oxford Instruments, IBMS and GE Hitachi.  

Find out more about Set for Britain.

Published: 13th March 2012