Frances Saunders (scientist) facts for kids

Dame Frances Carolyn Saunders, born on June 28, 1954, is a brilliant British scientist. She also worked for the government in important roles. From 2007 to 2012, she was the chief executive of Dstl. This is a special part of the UK government that helps with science and technology for defense and security.

Before leading Dstl, Frances Saunders was a scientist. She researched "liquid crystal devices." These are materials used in screens like those on your phone or computer. She also worked as a policy officer, helping to shape science plans for the government. Later, she became the president of the Institute of Physics, a group for physicists, from 2013 to 2015.

Early Life and Education

Frances Saunders went to Portsmouth High School, a school just for girls. After that, she studied physics at the University of Nottingham. Physics is the study of how the universe works, from tiny atoms to giant galaxies.

First Engineering Job

After university, Frances Saunders started working at Leyland. She was their very first female graduate engineer. She learned about electronic engineering there. However, she felt that the cool electronic systems she worked on were not being used enough in the cars they made.

Researching Liquid Crystals

Because she wanted to do more with electronics, she left Leyland. She then joined the Royal Signals and Radar Establishment (RSRE). This is where she began her part-time PhD. Her research focused on liquid crystal devices, which are key to many modern displays.

Promoting Science and Engineering

After she retired from Dstl in 2012, Frances Saunders did not stop working. She became very active in promoting science, engineering, and leadership. She especially wanted to inspire young people.

Supporting Young Scientists

She joined the UK Space Agency Steering Board in 2015. This group helps guide the UK's space exploration and research. She also served as a trustee for the Engineering Development Trust. This organization helps young people learn about engineering.

Recognitions and Awards

In 2011, Frances Saunders was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering. This is a big honor for engineers in the UK. The same year, she was also made a Companion of the Order of the Bath. This is another special award from the British government.

Becoming a Dame

In 2018, Frances Saunders received an even higher honor. She was named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE). This title is like being a knight, but for women. She received it for her amazing "services to Science and Engineering." This award was announced as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours List that year.

Honorary Doctorate

In December 2024, Frances Saunders received an Honorary Doctorate from Lancaster University. This special degree recognized her important contributions to science and engineering.