Dr Jenny Power, an Innovation Research Associate at Heriot-Watt University's Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE), has been appointed as the Scottish Representative for the London Mathematics Society (LMS) Outreach Lecturers programme. She will join other academics in delivering a new outreach programme created by the LMS, featuring talks and workshops for learners in primary, secondary, and further education settings throughout the UK.
The programme supports the LMS's objective to "promote the importance of mathematics and the provision of opportunities for those who wish to study and develop a career in mathematics and its applications". Dr Power aims to make mathematics appear accessible and creative to young people. "My top-level goal is for them to have engaged with the session, to have learned something, and to walk away with more maths knowledge than they had before. But my most basic goal is for them to just simply have had a positive experience with maths," she stated.
Dr Power learned about the opportunity through a colleague at Heriot-Watt and took the initiative to apply. "It’s really lovely that, while my job is to conduct research for M-DICE, I am also free and encouraged to pursue my own interests," she commented.
With a particular passion for increasing female participation in STEM, Dr Power has previously been involved in initiatives like The SOPHia Project in Ireland, which encouraged students, especially girls, to pursue physics. Such programmes are seen as vital for transforming lives by breaking down barriers to further education, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Over the next two years, Dr Power will develop and deliver workshops blending mathematics with art and music, alongside hands-on activities. This approach aligns with her current research at the University, focusing on connecting advanced mathematics with industry, policymakers, and real-world challenges.
Reflecting on progress, she noted, “As my career has progressed, I’ve noticed a higher proportion of women in the maths spaces I’m in than before, and it’s been really lovely.” She added, “I’m excited for the next generation of women to come into mathematics. There’s still a lot of room for improvement, but I think it’s better than it has been before.” Through the LMS's programme, thousands of young learners are expected to engage with mathematics in new and innovative ways.
