I’m writing this during a break in rehearsals for Handel’s Messiah in Canterbury Cathedral, singing with the cathedral choir and an orchestra, the curiously named Harmonious Society of Tickle Fiddle Gentlemen. There’s been an early cold snap this November, so the heating hasn’t quite caught up yet and it’s freezing.
Still, I’m feeling the glow of an experience a couple of weeks ago – one that recognised work I’ve spent much of my career doing without it being much of a plan.
Before I explain, let me introduce Major C.E.S. Phillips. Like me, Charles Edmund Stanley Phillips was a physicist with an artistic side-hustle. His was painting; mine is singing. Born in 1871, Phillips was an early enthusiast in X-rays and one of the founders of the Institute of Physics in 1920.
By day a physicist; in his spare time, an artist.
His paintings, now held by the Royal Institution, include witty depictions of the famous Friday Evening Discourses — including one where a speaker commits the ultimate faux pas of opening with “Ladies and Gentlemen” (speakers are expected to launch straight in at 9pm sharp and finish precisely at 10).
Image credit: The Royal Institution (CC BY-NC-ND)
I wonder whether painting satisfied Phillips’ craving for creativity. For me, singing provides that creative buzz, but it’s also deeply social. Choral singing, especially, brings mental and physical health benefits I value hugely.
So why the interest in Major Phillips? Because last month I was deeply honoured to receive an award in his name.
I was among the prize-winners at the Institute of Physics Awards Evening, held at The Oval, a venue steeped in history and achievement. I was delighted that Sally Smith, CEO of Physics Partners, was there to celebrate with me. The room brought together leading physicists, teachers, technicians, entrepreneurs and early-career researchers. Listening to the citations was humbling: extraordinary work, driven by commitment rather than ego.
Through the evening, one thing struck me again and again: excellence in physics takes many forms, and it is strengthened when it’s shared.
When my citation was read out, I heard the words:
“For outstanding leadership for over 30 years in widening participation in physics, especially for women and girls, through innovative education, outreach and mentoring initiatives with national and international impact.”
In the moment – with the lights, music and applause – it was hard to take it in. Afterwards, a familiar imposter voice whispered: so many others are doing superb work widening participation in physics. Why me?
But when I quieten that voice, I realise that this award is not about elevating one person. I see it as a mandate, a spotlight and a call to act.
A mandate to continue work I care deeply about – not only in physics, but across STEM and education more broadly – helping organisations engage meaningfully with schools and communities.
A spotlight on the importance of widening participation, particularly for women and girls, and on the many people working tirelessly to open doors and challenge stereotypes.
And a responsibility to keep championing less-heard voices, and to engage with those who have the power to reshape systems – systems that still keep doors closed, ceilings high and ladder rungs impossibly far apart.
Looking ahead, I’m seeking a non-executive role where I can bring this experience – and this mandate – to an organisation serious about widening opportunity for young people.
If you’re working to open doors in education, STEM, the arts or community life more broadly – especially for those who have historically been excluded – I’d love to connect. This work is richer, more effective and 10% braver when we do it together.