Behind the Science: Inside the World of Cancer Research
In Episode 19 of STEM Conversations, biomedical scientist and PhD candidate Steph Munroe joins hosts Sarah and Ash to reveal the true realities of scientific research. Discover how a decade of NHS laboratory experience led to ground breaking doctoral research on how psychological stress, elevated cortisol levels, and mental resilience directly influence the progression of women's cancers.In This Episode:
From NHS Labs to PhD Research: Steph’s transition from hospital sample analysis to leading-edge precision cancer medicine.
Psychological Stress & Cancer Progression: How chronic stress suppresses the immune system and why resilience techniques alter physical cancer outcomes.
The Behind-the-Scenes of Science: Navigating piecemeal grant funding, scarcity of clinical samples, and the industry push to publish negative results.
Women in STEM & Mentorship: The power of empathetic clinical trial design, female leadership, and inspiration from research supervisor Prof. Mel Flint.
Sussex Cancer Research Centre: How new regional collaborations between the NHS, University of Brighton, and University of Sussex accelerate medical breakthroughs.
Overcoming Math Anxiety in STEM: Why you do not need to be a math genius to build a successful, high-impact career in scientific research.
About the Guest
Steph Munroe is a biomedical scientist with 13 years of NHS experience. After earning her Master's in Precision Cancer Medicine with distinction, she began her PhD at the University of Brighton, where her lab focuses on how psychological stress and resilience impact women's cancers. Subscribe & Follow
Subscribe to STEM Conversations on YouTube and your favourite podcast apps for essential discussions on science, technology, engineering, and maths! #CancerResearch #BiomedicalScience #WomenInSTEM #STEMConversations #OvarianCancer #StressAndCancer #PhDLife #SciencePodcast
3 Aug 2026
Who Belongs in Physics? Why Representation Matters.
In this episode, we are joined by Rebecca Rebecca Peacock who shares her story from studying physics in a male-dominated environment to becoming a passionate advocate for equity in science education.
Rebecca reflects on being one of only a handful of women on her university physics course and the moment she realised she could help change the status quo.
Together, we discuss how gender stereotypes develop from an early age, the powerful influence of teachers, and why the language, examples and opportunities we give young people can shape their futures.
4 Jun 2026
On Target - Disability, Womanhood and the Paralympics
In this episode, we speak with world champion Danielle Brown MBE about her journey into, and unexpectedly out of, the Paralympics.
Danielle lives with Regional Pain Syndrome, a neurological condition that leaves her with chronic pain 24/7. She talks about living with this disability as well as the misrepresentation of the word, navigating womanhood and changing careers.
We touch on the 'disability movement' and moving away from the obsession with there always being a cure, and delve into the community of the paralympic village.
13 May 2026
Ep. 14 - Teaching the Classroom We Have Today: Practical Teacher Tips
If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair 🪑In episode 14, we speak with Helen Maddison Neill, Senior Lecturer of Primary Education at Edge Hill University. Helen reminds us that it doesn't matter how many times we feel like we've 'done this before', there's huge value in reaffirming what we know, learning from lived experience, and continuing to grow with the times.Sometimes that means giving the spotlight to our student teachers as the newest perspectives can come from the newest voices.Discussing the changing landscape of classroom environments, with almost 1 in 5 pupils in England now identified as having SEND.From trying to hide her hearing impairment earlier in her career to receiving a late dyslexia diagnosis, Helen shares honest lived experiences alongside invaluable advice for both trainee and established teachers navigating inclusive classrooms today.
22 Apr 2026
Ep. 13 - Critical Thinking Starts With Getting It Wrong: Practical Teacher Tips
In this episode of STEM Conversations, we meet with Paul Tyler, whose career spans biochemist, primary teacher and now content curator at Smart Stems. We discuss the importance of being comfortable with failure in building effective problem-solving skills. We explore how embracing failure contributes to critical thinking and fosters a resilient approach to STEM education.Engineering is more than just building models; it’s a way of thinking. Joined by Paul Tyler, we look at how to move beyond "step-by-step" crafts and help students develop the Engineering Habits of Mind needed for real-world success.We cover productive failure, oracy and talk, sustainable STEM and skill acquisition. Whether you're looking to reduce classroom mess or boost student engagement, this episode provides actionable strategies to transform your STEM teaching.
7 Apr 2026
Ep. 12 -From Physics to Educational Publishing
In this episode of STEM Conversations, Matteo Orsini-Jones shares his unique journey from studying physics to founding his own educational publishing company, Orso. He discusses the importance of exploring alternative career paths in STEM, the challenges of traditional teaching roles, and the lessons learned from working with established publishers.
Matteo emphasizes the value of company culture, the iterative nature of science, and encourages listeners to pursue their passions without feeling boxed in by conventional expectations.
He concludes with practical advice for those considering non-traditional pathways in their careers.
16 Mar 2026
Ep. 11 - Women in STEM and the Power of Representation
In episode 11 of STEM Conversations, Sarah and Ash are joined by Sarah Mills, former Analytical Chemist at AstraZeneca, Head of Science, and now Beyond Secondary Segment Manager at Twinkl.We explore her journey into STEM, the challenges and stereotypes women face, the power of role models, and how educators can create more inclusive spaces where every student feels confident to pursue science, technology, engineering and maths.We talk about: Women in STEM careersRepresentation and role modelsOvercoming stereotypesBuilding inclusive STEM classrooms
5 Mar 2026
Ep. 10 - From the Army to the Classroom: What STEM Education Gets Wrong
In this episode of STEM Conversations, Sarah and Ash speak with Fair Metcalfe, who shares her unique journey from military service to education.
With over 13 years of teaching experience and a focus on learning support for dyslexic army recruits, Fair discusses the importance of challenging stereotypes in STEM, the impact of her military background on her teaching methods, and the need for inclusivity in education.
She emphasises the value of diverse perspectives in STEM fields and the necessity of early intervention for students with learning barriers. The conversation highlights the significance of representation and the role of curiosity in fostering future scientists.
26 Feb 2026
Ep. 9 - Being the Youngest in the Room and Making it Onto the Forbes 30 Under 30 Founders List
What does female leadership in STEM really look like? In this episode of STEM Conversations, we’re joined by Megan and Anaïs, co-founders of Team Repair, an award-winning company teaching children how to fix electronic gadgets while building STEM skills and sustainable mindsets.Imperial College London engineering graduates, they share their journey into entrepreneurship, leading in male-dominated spaces, fundraising as young female founders, and building confidence as co-CEOs.We talk leadership, resilience, repair culture, and why sometimes you just have to give it a go.
10 Feb 2026
Ep. 8 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science - The numbers, the names, and the Matilda Effect
In this special episode, we explore women in science, the gender gap, and why representation in research, AI, and education still matters.We share reflections on what it’s like to find your place in science, play a quick Higher or Lower game using real global statistics on women in science, and spotlight powerful stories including Henrietta Lacks, Eunice Newton Foote, and the Matilda Effect - showing how women’s contributions have often been overlooked throughout history.We finish with practical ways schools, educators, and families can inspire the next generation of girls in science.
28 Jan 2026
Ep. 7 - The Importance of Oracy in the Classroom
In this episode of STEM Conversations, we chat with Peter Munroe, a science teacher and leader, to explore the concept of oracy and its significance in education.
We discuss the definition of oracy, its importance in fostering effective communication and learning, and address common misconceptions. The conversation delves into practical applications of oracy in science education, inclusive practices for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and the challenges teachers face in implementing oracy in the classroom.
Peter shares insights on how to create a supportive environment for oracy and emphasises the need for teachers to experiment with oracy activities to enhance student engagement and understanding.
15 Jan 2026
Ep. 6 - Real World Relevance in STEM
Join us as we speak with guests Adam Sirett and James Foster Le-Grys, co-founders of Espire Education and the STEM On Track Programme.We discuss the importance of hands-on learning in STEM education, the mission of STEM on Track to bridge the gap between education and employment, and how practical projects can build confidence and resilience in students.
6 Jan 2026
Ep. 5 - Maths Anxiety
Join us as we speak with Arthur Moore, award-winning tutor trainer and consultant with a background in secondary maths education. Arthur explores barriers to learning, focusing in particular on maths anxiety. Together, we unpick what causes maths anxiety and discuss practical ways to help diffuse it, both in the classroom and in everyday life.
18 Dec 2025
Ep. 4 - Digital Strategies in the Classroom
In this episode, we’re joined by Tom Moseley, Associate Assistant Headteacher and Head of the Innovation Faculty at Fortis Academy, to talk all things digital strategies in the classroom. We dive into real-world implementation, what’s working well, and the challenges children face in an increasingly digital world.
Huge thanks to Tom for tackling every question we threw at him like a true champ!
11 Dec 2025
A Short Conversation With...
Join us as we speak with Dame Chi Onwurah, Member of Parliament for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West and Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee.
In this conversation, Chi shares her journey from engineering to becoming a Member of Parliament, discussing the challenges of representation in STEM fields, the impact of gendered toys on children's interests, and the socioeconomic barriers that limit access to STEM education. She emphasises the importance of community and government support in creating opportunities for all children to pursue careers in STEM, highlighting the need for diverse role models and inclusive practices.
4 Dec 2025
Ep. 3 - Equity in STEM Education
Join us as we speak with Dr Jennifer Shearman, Chief Learning Officer for MEI, a maths charity that works to improve math education in England. We discuss the difference between equity and equality, ways to overcome barriers for underrepresented groups in STEM, and even crack a couple of dinosaur jokes.
13 Nov 2025
Ep. 2 - Confidence Isn’t the Only Problem for Women Leaders
In this episode, we speak with Jayne Quoiani, Head of STEM at the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Open Learning. We explore messy learning and the power of making mistakes. Jayne also discusses her work with the IVVN African Outreach Programme, which trains women scientists in veterinary vaccinology across Africa and provides a mobile laboratory in a suitcase to run schools outreach workshops, inspiring the next generation of scientists.
21 Oct 2025
Ep. 1 - Women in STEM and Leadership
Join us as we speak with Caroline Hamilton, Collins Maths textbook author, Co-Founder of Rethink Maths, and Women in Education BESA 2024 winner about supporting women in STEM careers and encouraging girls in STEM education, with a focus on the theme of 'balance'.
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