Laura Hobbs

Laura Hobbs is a Senior Research Fellow in Science Communication at the University of the West of England, working across the College of Health, Science and Society and the College of Arts, Technology and Environment. Her position within the Science Communication Unit focuses on developing innovative communication, engagement, and research projects that bridge scientific disciplines with public outreach, particularly through digital platforms and gaming technologies.

Dr. Hobbs holds an MSci in Geology and a PhD in Environmental Science, providing her with a strong foundation in earth sciences that informs her interdisciplinary approach to science communication. Her educational background enables her to effectively translate complex environmental concepts into accessible learning experiences.

Her research spans multiple critical areas in contemporary science communication, with particular emphasis on informal science learning for underserved audiences. A significant portion of her work utilizes computer games, especially Minecraft, to create engaging educational experiences in environmental science and engineering. She has developed the successful Science Hunters program which uses Minecraft to engage children with earth science concepts, environmental engineering, and sustainability education. Her research also addresses important social dimensions of science engagement including women in STEM, wellbeing, arts-science integration, and science communication during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Hobbs approaches science communication through multiple lenses including educational psychology, environmental justice, and digital literacy.

Analysis of Dr. Hobbs' recent publication trends reveals a strategic evolution in her research focus. While maintaining her core expertise in game-based environmental education, she has increasingly incorporated sustainability frameworks, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Her work demonstrates growing attention to inclusive practices, with recent publications addressing neurodivergent learners, gender diversity in engineering, and community resilience. The interdisciplinary nature of her research connects environmental science with social sciences, education, and digital humanities, creating a unique niche in science communication scholarship.

• Royal Academy of Engineering Ingenious Award for Engineering for Sustainable Societies project

Dr. Hobbs has secured significant research funding through projects like Engineering for Sustainable Societies and Science Hunters, which have enabled extensive community engagement and educational outreach. Her work on the VIP-CLEAR project during the pandemic demonstrated innovative approaches to maintaining science engagement during lockdowns. Through collaborations with schools, community organizations, and professional bodies like the Royal Academy of Engineering, she has developed impactful programs that extend beyond traditional academic boundaries. Her research on women in STEM and neurodivergent learners reflects a commitment to addressing systemic barriers in science education.

Dr. Hobbs leads the Science Hunters initiative, a multi-faceted program that has become a model for game-based science education. Her work extends across multiple research centers including the Science Communication Unit and collaborations with the Centre for Environment, Society and Resilience. Through her projects, she has built interdisciplinary teams that combine expertise in environmental science, education, game design, and social research. Her leadership in adapting science engagement during the pandemic demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of her approach, with successful transitions to remote delivery while maintaining engagement with underserved audiences.