Stephen Ashworth

Stephen Ashworth is a Professor of Chemical Physics and Science Communication at the University of East Anglia (UEA), affiliated with the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics. His career spans postdoctoral research at institutions like JILA and NIST in Colorado, followed by fellowships at the Max-Born Institute in Berlin and an EPSRC Advanced Fellowship. He transitioned to academia at UEA in 1999, holding roles including Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Reader, and his current professorship since 2019.

His research initially focused on high-resolution spectroscopy and atmospheric chemistry but shifted toward science communication, highlighted by awards like the Royal Society of Chemistry's Inspirational Member Award (2018). He leads initiatives such as Kitchen Chemistry and collaborates on projects like Spectroscopy in a Suitcase, funded by organizations including the British Council and Royal Society of Chemistry.

Teaching responsibilities include modules in physical chemistry, physics, and science communication. He chairs committees like the Natural Sciences Teaching Executive and serves on external bodies such as the Norwich Science Festival Steering Committee and Scifest Africa Advisory Committee.

Award-winning publications span spectroscopic techniques, molecular dynamics, and educational outreach. Notable works include contributions to calixarene conformational analysis and phthalocyanine photophysics. Over 50 students have been advised, with recent projects involving molecular energy landscapes and sensor applications.