British Science Association (BSA) President-Elect Jim Al-Khalili has today been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, alongside fifty eminent scientists who have received the accolade for their exceptional contributions to science.
Professor Jim Al-Khalili is a theoretical physicist and award-winning broadcaster, and has been made a Fellow for his work on the neutron halo, as well as his dedicated service to public engagement. Professor Al-Khalili will take up his Presidency of the British Science Association in September 2018, and has previously served on Council (the BSA’s governing body) as Vice-President for Sections.
In addition, BSA Chair Lord David Willetts has been announced as an Honorary Fellow of the Society for his consistent and high quality championing of science. Lord Willetts is a Privy Councillor and was Minister for Universities and Science between 2010 – 2014. He has been Chair of the British Science Association since 2015.
Professor Jim Al-Khalili (BSA President-Elect) and Lord David Willetts (BSA Chair)
They will be formally admitted to the Society at the Admissions Day ceremony in July, where they sign the Charter Book and the Obligation of the Fellows of the Royal Society.
Katherine Mathieson, Chief Executive of the British Science Association, said: “I’m thrilled to hear that two inspirational colleagues have been recognised with this honour by The Royal Society. They have both done fantastic work in the science community and have made many positive contributions to society through their tireless research, campaigning, and teaching. Both the Royal Society and the BSA believe in science’s power to transform our world, and champions like Professor Al-Khalili and Lord Willetts do fantastic work in showing how science affects all our lives.”
The Fellowship of the Royal Society is made up of the most eminent scientists, engineers and technologists from or living and working in the UK and the Commonwealth.
Other newly-made Fellows include internationally renowned engineer, inventor and entrepreneur Elon Musk and Sheila Rowan, who is recognised for her key contributions to the discovery of gravitational radiation.