Sheila Kanani

Outreach and Diversity Officer, Royal Astronomical Society

Dr Sheila Kanani MBE is a British planetary scientist, teacher, science communicator, author and self-alleged space comedian with a background in research from UK universities. Sheila has been the Education, Outreach and Diversity Officer at the Royal Astronomical Society since 2014, is a primary school governor, STEM ambassador and was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List 2022 for services to astronomy and diversity in physics.

Manifesto

I've partnered with the ASDC on specific projects and programmes and I think the work the team does is excellent. The future of science and discovery centres is changing, due to the pandemic and the digital divide, and the diverse culture of the next generations. I want to help the ASDC effect the necessary changes so that we can promote STEM to communities with typically low science capital.

What I bring
  • A diverse background of knowledge ranging from scientific research to teaching, and diversity and inclusion.
  • Networks of colleagues across the space industry and science communication profession.
  • Expertise in outreach, education and diversity practices.
  • Enthusiasm and passion in making science accessible for all.