Suzie Imber

Winner of BBC 2’s “Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?”, Former NASA Research Scientist, Professor of Space Physics, High-Altitude Mountaineer & Co-Investigator on ESA’s BepiColombo Mission

Suzie Imber’s Biography:

Suzie Imber is a Professor of Space Physics, high-altitude mountaineer and explorer whose work centres on space weather and the interaction between the solar wind and planetary environments. She is internationally recognised for her role as a co-investigator on the Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer (MIXS), a key instrument on the European Space Agency’s BepiColombo mission to Mercury. Combining scientific expertise with real-world exploration, Suzie has established herself as a leading figure in planetary physics and extreme-environment research.

Suzie’s academic foundation began with a first-class degree in physics from Imperial College London, where she also undertook two internships at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. She went on to complete her PhD at the University of Leicester in 2008, focusing on magnetospheric physics. That same year she joined NASA as a Research Scientist, contributing to heliophysics research, before returning to Leicester in 2011 as a Postdoctoral Research Associate to continue advancing her work in space plasma dynamics.

In 2014 she was awarded a prestigious Leverhulme Trust Fellowship for her project examining Mercury’s magnetosphere. Alongside her academic research, Suzie has developed advanced computational tools, including supercomputer algorithms designed to identify unmapped mountains in remote regions such as the Andes and the Himalayas. This unique combination of scientific coding and physical exploration has enabled her to undertake expeditions to climb newly identified peaks, often in partnership with renowned explorer Maximo Kausch.

Suzie gained national recognition in 2017 after winning BBC Two’s Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?, where she demonstrated exceptional scientific understanding, physical capability and psychological resilience. Her career has continued to flourish with awards such as the Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award in 2021 and her appointment as a visiting professor at the University of Michigan. Her ongoing involvement in the BepiColombo mission and her broader contributions to planetary science position her as a leading voice in the study of our solar system.

Why Hire Suzie Imber?

Suzie Imber is an exceptional speaker who brings together cutting-edge space science, real-world exploration and a dynamic communication style that resonates with diverse audiences. Her ability to translate complex scientific ideas into accessible, inspiring messages makes her a standout choice for conferences, festivals and educational programmes. Having spoken at major events such as the Royal Albert Hall, Hong Kong science forums and numerous high-profile science festivals, she is well versed in delivering compelling talks that captivate large audiences. She also regularly chairs panel discussions, hosts conference sessions and presents podcast series, offering both expertise and polished delivery.

Suzie’s commitment to outreach is demonstrated through her extensive engagement with young people, having personally spoken to more than 35,000 schoolchildren nationwide. Her presentations leave audiences energised, informed and motivated, making her an ideal speaker for organisations seeking a blend of scientific authority, inspiration and genuine passion.

Suzie Imber’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Suzie Imber inspirational career from NASA to the winning a BBC competition:

• 2025 – Invited as a keynote speaker for the Ignite Space planetarium event, where she was scheduled to deliver insights on planetary science and the future of space exploration.
• 2021 – Awarded the Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award and Lecture for excellence in scientific research and outstanding science communication.
• 2019 – Delivered the Claudia Parsons Memorial Lecture at Loughborough University, highlighting her contributions to space science and exploration.
• 2019 – Selected for Homeward Bound, a global leadership programme preparing women to lead international climate and science initiatives.
• 2018 – Contributed to the BepiColombo mission launch, serving as a co-investigator on the Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer.
• 2017 – Won BBC Two’s Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?, demonstrating exceptional physical, psychological and scientific capability.
• 2014 – Awarded a Leverhulme Trust Fellowship for her research on Mercury’s magnetosphere and space weather.
• 2011 – Returned to the University of Leicester as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, advancing her magnetospheric physics research.
• 2008 – Joined NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center as a Research Scientist following completion of her PhD.
• 2005 – Graduated with first-class honours in physics from Imperial College London, including two NASA internships in heliophysics.