Physics World Weekly Podcast
Julia Sutcliffe: chief scientific adviser explains why policymaking must be underpinned by evidence
Oct 24, 2024
Julia Sutcliffe, the Chief Scientific Advisor to the UK government’s Department for Business and Trade, has an impressive background in systems engineering at British Aerospace, focusing on robotics and AI. She discusses her journey from academia to government, emphasizing the role of evidence in policymaking. Sutcliffe stresses the importance of collaboration and systems thinking, urging for science to be integrated into mainstream dialogue to fuel innovation. She highlights the need for inclusivity in science and engineering, encouraging newcomers to embrace opportunities.
30:54
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Quick takeaways
- Julia Sutcliffe emphasizes the importance of evidence-based policymaking to align technological advancements with effective government strategy.
- She advocates for integrating science into mainstream discussions to foster collaboration and recognition of diverse contributions in innovation.
Deep dives
Early Inspirations and Career Path
Julia Sutcliffe's fascination with physics stems from her childhood experiences witnessing significant engineering feats, which spurred her interest in the subject. She pursued her studies, achieving a PhD in physics from Nottingham University, where she engaged in complex research under the guidance of notable professors. After her academic journey, Sutcliffe took a detour into systems engineering at British Aerospace, where she explored advanced technologies like robotics and AI. This diverse background laid the foundation for her unique perspective as a science advisor, merging fundamental science with practical application.
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