We are delighted to announce the appointment of two exceptional new trustees to our Board: Alix Johnstone-Morfoisse and Dr Kathryn O’Donnell.
We received an outstanding calibre of responses to our call for new trustees. It was wonderful to see how many people share our passion for physics education and are eager to contribute their expertise. Alix and Kathryn stood out for their unique experience and commitment, and we’re so pleased to have them joining us.
They both bring a wealth of expertise that will complement our existing board, and a shared passion for the importance of physics in education and society. Their leadership and insight will be invaluable as we continue our work to support physics teaching across the UK.
Alix Johnstone-Morfoisse
Alix is the founder and director of SimplyBD, a consultancy specialising in business development for the nuclear sector. With a background in nuclear engineering, she has developed a career at the intersection of scientific innovation and industrial growth.
Currently pursuing a part-time PhD in nuclear physics at the University of Birmingham, Alix brings a blend of academic research and hands-on industry insight. She is also a passionate advocate for increasing participation in STEM fields and is an active member of organisations such as Women in Nuclear.
Alix’s background in nuclear energy, along with her volunteering experience and her evident passion for physics, will be hugely valuable to Physics Partners.
Dr Kathryn O’Donnell
Kathryn brings over 20 years of leadership experience in high-growth, high-stakes sectors including Space, Cyber Security, and Defence. Most recently, she played a pivotal role as COO at In-Space Missions Ltd, helping to scale the business ahead of its successful acquisition by BAE Systems Plc. Her earlier roles span BAE Systems, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, and companies now part of Airbus UK.
She holds a PhD in Astrodynamics, an MSc in Spacecraft Engineering, and an MA in Astrophysics from the University of Cambridge, where she was also active on the University Women’s Executive.
A passionate advocate for gender equality and equity in STEM, Kathryn shares our vision of making physics education inclusive, inspiring, and accessible to all.
Kathryn’s expertise in the cyber and space industries, along with her extensive leadership experience will be hugely valuable to Physics Partners.
We are thrilled to welcome Alix and Kathryn to the Physics Partners Board of Trustees. Their combined expertise, leadership, and commitment will enrich our work and expand our impact as we continue to support physics teachers and promote excellence in physics education across the UK.
