Dr Karen Donaldson, a Project Manager at the National Robotarium, has been announced today (10 Jan) as one of the first inductees to the UK Young Academy – a network of early career researchers and professionals established to help tackle local and global issues and promote meaningful change.

As part of the first cohort of 67 members, Karen will have the opportunity to help shape the strategy and focus of this new organisation and inform local and global policy discussions and find innovative solutions to the challenges facing societies now and in the future.

An engineering physicist, Karen’s research in physics, plasma physics, robotics and engineering has been internationally recognised through a variety of publications and journals. Prior to joining the National Robotarium’s Project Management team, she worked in SMeSTech at the University of Strathclyde.

In collaboration with fellow members who are also excelling in their respective fields across the private sector, charities and academia, including colleague and public engagement lead for the Edinburgh Centre for Robotics, Dr Alistair McConnell, Karen will develop ideas, and lend a voice to developing inclusive and credible solutions for positive global change.

Karen said: “It’s an honour to join the UK Young Academy and build my networks with intelligent, likeminded people.

“I always strive to advance myself and technology – being a member of the Young Academy will support these goals.”

Find out more about the UK Young Academy.