At-Bristol appoints Anna Starkey, former BBC Producer and ‘Director of Impossible Projects’ in new Creative Director role

Wed 20 May 2015

At-Bristol Science Centre, one of the UK’s leading interactive science centres, has appointed Anna Starkey – science communicator, BAFTA nominated writer, producer and director, in a newly created Creative Director role. Overseeing At-Bristol’s Learning and Exhibitions teams, the role aims to bring science and art closer together.

In this new post, Anna will be responsible for leading creative input and challenging existing models of engagement and learning, as well as driving the introduction of content which At-Bristol will deliver to new and existing audiences. In line with At-Bristol’s vision of “making science accessible to all”, Anna will build on relationships both within and outside the organisation; working on arts and science content in the exhibitions and learning programmes, and events and interactive exhibits both in physical and digital form.

Anna brings to the role a wealth of both creative and scientific experience, including her recent role as Series Producer for BBC Young Dancer, Producer for BBC FOUR Proms and Producer for live broadcasts for the Royal Opera House London. She is also BAFTA nominated as Best Writer for her work on Charlie and Lola, and script edited Series 2 of the award winning My Mad Fat Diary.

Anna has also held the roles of ‘Director of Impossible Projects’ for Lottolab, where she produced events for the Science Museum Lates, as well as helping to design experiments and drive collaborations with designers, artists and musicians; and was UK Particle Physics Outreach Officer for the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council, working with CERN. She holds the qualifications of an MSc in Science Communication, and a 1st class Physics degree.

Anna Starkey said:  “It’s a great privilege to be taking on this role in At-Bristol. The opportunity to develop new ideas with such a passionate team of people is hugely exciting - especially with the door wide open to explore the innovative space where science and art merge and cross-fertilise. This is where we can look at evolving the science centre experience for visitors and connecting with the uniquely creative and innovative life of the city of Bristol, and beyond.  I’m looking forward to seeing At-Bristol build on its current success, and lead the way in redefining the way in which science is perceived, practiced and accessed by all, at the heart of our contemporary culture.”

Phil Winfield, At-Bristol’s Chief Executive added: “We are very excited to have Anna joining the management team in At-Bristol as we experiment with new ways to excite people about science. We will be exploring the areas where arts and science overlap, often working in partnership with other organisations; a perfect fit for Anna’s skills. She has already met many people in Bristol and received a very warm welcome, so we look forward to some unique and innovative projects.”

Reporting to At-Bristol’s Chief Executive Phil Winfield, Anna will oversee At-Bristol’s Learning and Exhibitions teams, and will form part of the Senior Management Team, working with staff, volunteers and At-Bristol Board of Trustees.

Anna starts her post in At-Bristol on 26th May. For more information about At-Bristol, please visit www.at-bristol.org.uk