Meet the Team

Meet the Team

Andy Newsam: Director

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Background

I studied Computational Physics at the University of Warwick. After this, I moved into astronomy and completed a PhD at the University of Glasgow.

During my PhD, I studied how galaxies move. I looked at what this movement can tell us about how dense the Universe is.

I later worked at the University of Southampton. I used telescopes based around the world and in space. This work helped me develop a strong interest in observing the Universe.

In 1998, I joined Liverpool John Moores University. I helped to start the education programme for the Liverpool Telescope. This work later became The Schools’ Observatory. I have remained involved with the project ever since.

Favourite Object in Space

The Pleiades are my favourite object. When I see them in the evening sky, it usually means the night will be clear.

About Me

At school, I enjoyed both science and drama. Science became my career, but I still enjoy theatre.

I do not act very often now. Instead, I work backstage. I mainly help with lighting design.

I have also taken part in some unusual performances. This includes co-founding a group called the Butlers.

Pronouns

He / Him / His

Stacey Habergham-Mawson: Project Manager

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Background

I earned a master’s degree in Astrophysics in 2008. After this, I spent a year training to be a teacher. This helped me better understand life in schools.

I later returned to astrophysics. I completed a PhD and then worked as a postdoctoral researcher. My research focused on supernova explosions. These happen when very large stars reach the end of their lives.

Alongside my research, I worked in school outreach. I enjoy sharing astronomy with young people. I joined The Schools’ Observatory in 2014.

Favourite Object in Space

My choice is influenced by my research. I would choose Arp 299, a system made of two large galaxies.

These galaxies have collided with huge energy. This has triggered a burst of star formation at their centre. While a galaxy like the Milky Way produces one supernova about every 100 years, Arp 299 has had seven since 1992.

About Me

I enjoy spending time in nature. I like walking and photography, especially flowers and birds.

I have a small family and a dog called Bumble. I am vegetarian and enjoy growing my own fruit and vegetables. I hope to one day run a small smallholding.

I am also a fan of American Football and support the Baltimore Ravens. I care deeply about sustainability and being kind to the planet.

Pronouns

She / Her / Hers

Alison Keen: Development and Marketing Officer

Background

I studied Computer Studies and spent around ten years building websites.

During this time, I supported small businesses and community groups with their online presence.

I joined The Schools’ Observatory in 2012 as Development and Marketing Officer. I help people access tools and information that are usually only available to professionals.

Favourite Object in Space

At the moment, my favourite object is the Horsehead Nebula. This is thanks to recent images from the Hubble Space Telescope.

About Me

I enjoy baking, and friends and family say my cakes taste good.

I am a big fan of Doctor Who and other science-fiction shows and films.

I love travelling. There is a small port in Mallorca that I enjoy visiting, and I often photograph the sunset there.

Pronouns

She / Her / Hers

Chris Leigh: Strategic Projects’ Coordinator

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Background

After leaving school, I spent eight years in the Royal Air Force. I completed extensive training and took part in two search and rescue tours in the UK.

I later studied Astrophysics at the University of St Andrews. I earned a first-class degree and stayed on to complete a PhD in exoplanet research.

I joined Liverpool John Moores University in 2004 and soon began working with The Schools’ Observatory.

Favourite Object in Space

Choosing just one object is difficult. If I had to choose, I would pick an image of the Sombrero Galaxy taken by the Hubble Space Telescope.

About Me

I live in the Scottish countryside with my wife Jenny and our three sons.

I hope to return to hiking and cycling in the future. I still feel very lucky to be paid to look at the night sky.

Pronouns

He / Him / His

Mohamed Daoud (Soli): Development and Engagement Officer

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Background

I was always curious as a child and began reading physics books at a young age.

This interest grew into a passion for explaining science simply. I later won the FameLab science communication competition.

I have worked in outreach, science centres, festivals, and media across several countries. At The Schools’ Observatory, I help schools access more than 20 robotic telescopes.

Favourite Object in Space

My favourite star is Sirius. In ancient Egyptian culture, it marked renewal and change.

About Me

I enjoy sports, science fiction, board games, and new technology.

I love travelling and have visited over 60 countries. Wherever I am, space has always felt like home.

Pronouns

He / Him / His

Georgia Hurst: Observational Data and Development Officer

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Background

I have loved the night sky since childhood. Physics was my favourite subject at school.

I earned a master’s degree in Astrophysics in 2018 and later trained as a physics teacher.

I spent four years teaching before joining The Schools’ Observatory. The role combines my interests in education and space.

Favourite Object in Space

I enjoy finding constellations without a telescope. My favourite is Cassiopeia, which forms a clear “W” shape in the sky.

About Me

I enjoy hiking, photography, and astrophotography. I own a telescope and once photographed the aurora.

I am interested in neurodiversity and was diagnosed with ADHD at 24. Learning about this helped me understand myself better.

Pronouns

She / Her / Hers