Biology Science Blog

Authors

David Urry

David UrryDavid Urry is a science communicator with a flair for the unexpected. As regional coordinator at the Royal Society of Biology, he brings biology to life through playful, hands-on activities at science and music festivals across the UK. He’s also known for performing as Galapagos Finch, his singing, stage-jumping alter ego who delivers songs about evolution and ecosystems with a healthy dose of humor and enthusiasm. With a background in environmental science from the University of Oxford and experience at the Natural History Museum and Bat Conservation Trust, David blends scientific depth with creative energy.

He’s spent the last decade crafting stories, shaping events, and sparking curiosity through everything from research reports and consultancy work to giant insect costumes and musical numbers. Based in Abergavenny, David has written articles, songs, blogs, and bids – sometimes all in the same week. He’s equally at home copyediting a document or energizing a festival crowd, and thrives on turning complex ideas into something people can laugh, sing, or think about. Always curious and full of ideas, he’s ready for the next project that needs a touch of imagination and a lot of heart.

More info:

Rebecca Nesbit

Rebecca NesbitDr Rebecca Nesbit is an ecologist, author, and science communicator who brings deep curiosity and sharp insight to everything she does. She now works as press officer at the Royal Society of Biology, drawing on a career that has spanned butterfly migration research, science policy, and international outreach. After earning her PhD in ecology from the University of York in collaboration with Rothamsted Research, she helped develop bee-based detection technology for airport security and later toured global universities with Nobel laureates as part of the Nobel Prize Inspiration Initiative.

Rebecca’s writing explores the moral and philosophical questions that science often raises – especially in conservation. Her 2022 book Tickets for the Ark dives into one of the hardest questions of our time: which species do we choose to save, and why? She’s also the author of Is That Fish in Your Tomato?, an exploration of the science and ethics of genetically modified foods. Alongside her writing, she has led projects in fisheries science, clean technology, and offshore renewables, and is currently project manager for the OcEn initiative focused on ocean energy. Her work blends clarity, compassion, and a commitment to thoughtful dialogue on science and the environment.

More info:

Zara Gladman

Zara GladmanDr Zara Gladman is a dynamic science communicator, comedian, and engagement strategist with a PhD in Ecology and over 13 years of experience leading public engagement in research. Her early work included a Science Communication Internship with the Society of Biology, where she helped shape events and outreach initiatives. Since then, she has gone on to lead award-winning festivals, develop national training programs, and support researchers in building creative, community-focused projects. Her career bridges science, the arts, and social impact – always with an eye toward inclusion, innovation, and breaking down academic silos.

Alongside her professional roles, Zara performs as a writer, satirist, and stand-up comedian. She founded the Glasgow chapter of Bright Club in 2011 and has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe and Glasgow International Comedy Festival, where her 2024 debut hour sold out twice. Her alter ego, “Lady Alba,” rose to fame during the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum, gaining millions of views and media attention across major outlets. Zara’s work – on stage and off – balances sharp scientific insight with humour, heart, and a passion for making knowledge genuinely engaging.

More info:

Jackie Caine

Jackie CaineJackie Caine is a Senior Science Policy Adviser at the Society of Biology, where she plays a key role in shaping discussions across the biological sciences. Her work focuses on critical areas such as skills development and open access, helping to guide policy that supports both researchers and the broader scientific community. She has contributed to national conversations by providing evidence to the House of Lords and House of Commons Science and Technology Committees, particularly around forestry research and its future.

Throughout her career, Jackie has worked to strengthen the connection between science and policy, using her expertise to represent the needs of the bioscience community. She has also explored how researchers communicate their findings, contributing to surveys and publications like The Biologist. Her approach combines strategic insight with a deep understanding of the research landscape, making her a respected voice in UK science policy.

More info:

Natasha Little

Natasha LittleNatasha Little is a freelance science journalist and communications advisor with a sharp mind for numbers and ideas, thanks to her degree in Mathematics and Philosophy from the University of Oxford. She works with the Royal Society Press Office and also advises the Office of the Director of Communications at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Her work spans science writing, editing, and public communication, shaped by a passion for making complex topics engaging and easy to grasp.

Born in Liverpool and raised in the Middle East, Natasha grew up in a family deeply connected to public service – her father set up immunisation clinics for the World Health Organization, and her mother taught in an international school. After returning to the UK and studying at Epping Forest College, Natasha explored acting before finding her true calling in science journalism. Her writing blends clarity with curiosity, and she brings thoughtfulness and energy to every story she tells.

More info: