A zoomed in photo of the Lovell Telescope

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Spotlighting some of the many incredible women making history at Jodrell Bank and the SKA Observatory.

Women Shaping Science

Posted 28 Mar, 2025

As Women’s History Month draws to a close, we’re sharing the stories of the women shaping science today – read on to discover what drives their work:

Dr Rebecca Bowler, Research Fellow, Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics

“Seeing the Milky Way from my garden and going to a local astronomy club inspired me as a teenager to study physics and eventually astrophysics. I love watching the [Lovell] telescope move. It blows my mind to think that it is pointing at different astronomical sources and collecting data during my visit.”

Aya Hafez, SKAO Product Assurance Engineer

“My favourite part of my job is that you’re always learning. The world is always changing, and so is our work. Also, it allows me to work collaboratively with different disciplines, learning from each one, and connect with people from all over the world, which is truly amazing.

Every day on my way to the office, I remind myself, “I’m not taking this for granted.” The peaceful drive, the beautiful fields around the office, and the relaxing lunch break walks are things I really appreciate. I also like bringing my friends to visit the observatory, and it always impresses them!”

Dr Laura Wolz, Reader/UKRI Future Leader Fellow, Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics

“I love working in Astronomy, it is a very creative field of science which attracts many different people with vastly different skillsets, and only the combination usually leads to successful scientific discoveries. Being part of Jodrell Bank Observatory is particularly exciting, as it has such a rich history while also taking part in so many new exciting astronomy projects!”

Dr Nichol Cunningham, SKAO Operations Scientist

“As a child, I was captivated by the night sky. I couldn’t imagine a future that didn’t involve exploring and understanding the Universe and its mysteries.

Learning more about our galaxy and the workings of the Universe is incredible. My favourite thing, though, is working alongside so many inspiring and passionate people, all united by the same goal.”

Prof Philippa Browning, Professor of Astrophysics, Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics

“I was inspired to become an astrophysicist by looking at the moon as a six year old, and wondering why it had dark patches. Ever since, I have wanted to know more about the universe around us, and I have spent most of my career explaining many mysteries about our nearest star, the Sun.”

Shraddha Bajare, SKAO Software Quality Engineer

“My favourite thing about my job is collaborating with people with a science background, getting to know stories, and ideas behind the design and architectures.

I love the combination of science and the rich history of Jodrell Bank, and the Lovell Telescope is a symbol of that legacy. I’m surrounded by a community dedicated to exploring the Universe.”

Dr Gemma Danks, SKAO Data Processing Software Engineer

“I was inspired to get into this field ever since writing my first computer program. Now it’s exciting to get to be part of one of the biggest science projects in history!”

Prof Anna Scaife, Professor of Radio Astronomy, Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics

“I did physics at university mainly because of the influence from good physics and maths teachers at school. When I chose my A-levels I was originally intending to do English, History and Latin …but I met my maths teacher on the way into school and ended up signing up for Physics, Chemistry and Maths (thanks, Mr Parry).

I really enjoy the mix of past and future at the observatory. There’s so much legacy – not just in astronomy, but also other scientific fields – and it’s also a working national research facility and the headquarters of a huge international astronomical organisation. Where else in the world can you find that? It’s unique.”