About Us

Alistair joined the Salters’ Institute as Head of Education in 2026, having worked in the school science education sector for just over 20 years. This included 12 years at the University of York Science Education Group where he led research-informed projects with national impact to support science teaching and learning, including Best Evidence Science Teaching (BEST) and the development of the science curriculum for Oak National Academy. He has been a regular keynote speaker and panellist at national education conferences and teacher training events, a longstanding senior examiner, and a member of various committees at the learned societies.

Alistair leads the Education Team and the implementation of our Education Strategy across all the Institute’s programmes.

If you were an element from the periodic table, which one would you be and why?

Mg – Magnesium: A familiar presence in school science lessons, magnesium has been sparking young people’s interest in science for decades! It’s also an important catalyst in chemistry and biology, helping to drive positive change.

Holly’s background is in chemistry research, and she completed her PhD on novel battery technologies including sodium-ion batteries. She has experience with managing a range of outreach projects, from build a battery workshops in primary schools to advanced chemistry competitions for sixth form students.

Holly joined the Salters’ Institute in 2024, and works across all the Institute’s educational programmes. She runs the Chemistry Club platform with Daisy, and manages the Outreach Ambassadors.

If you were an element from the periodic table, which one would you be and why?

P – Phosphorus: Found in fertilisers, helping things grow, and in matches, sparking new ideas. I support the growth of our chemistry education programmes and enjoy forming bonds with both the team and our diverse external partners.

Janine has a PhD in Mathematical Biology and her research focussed on examining purine metabolism in leukaemic cells using mathematical modelling and biochemical techniques. She has extensive experience of leading STEM outreach initiatives and is passionate about exciting the next generation about the wonders and joy of science.

Janine coordinates all the background work that goes into organising the main Festivals of Chemistry as well as being the on-the-day lead at our Discovery Days; the in-person portion of the programme.

If you were an element from the periodic table, which one would you be and why?

Fe – Iron: I am happy working behind the scenes, steadily getting things done. This is similar to iron which is found working in the background, whether it be buried inside concrete to reinforce its strength or silently carrying oxygen around the body as part of haemoglobin.

Daisy graduated in 2025 with a Masters degree in Chemistry. Her research project focused on the presence and effects of PFAS (per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances) chemicals in the environment. She is passionate about making science careers and education accessible for everyone, no matter their background.

As an Outreach Officer, Daisy works supporting the Awards and Chemistry Club programmes, and the social media for the Salters’ Institute.

If you were an element from the periodic table, which one would you be and why?

He – Helium: I like to think I get along with everybody – just like helium, which is unreactive, non-toxic and safe to be around. Helium is the second-lightest element and you can usually find me smiling or laughing!

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