Daisy Shearer

GradCert MPhys FHEA MInstP

About

Daisy Shearer is the Quantum Computing Outreach and Education Lead at the National Quantum Computing Centre. They are a passionate science communicator and educator with a drive to make STEM more accessible and inclusive, particularly for disabled and neurodivergent people. With a background in experimental condensed matter physics, Daisy combines a deep technical knowledge of quantum technology with a passion for teaching and public engagement to translate quantum computing concepts for a variety of audiences. In 2025, Daisy was named as one of UNESCO’s ‘Quantum 100’ in recognition of their work in inclusive quantum education and public engagement.

Public Engagement and Science Communication

I have a broad portfolio of outreach, public engagement and science communication activities. This includes working with local schools as a STEM ambassador (and part of their quantum ambassadors program), organising and running live events, designing and managing projects, doing speaking engagements, sharing my research on social media, and engaging with the media. In 2022, I made the leap into being a full-time public engagement professional when I became the Outreach and Engagement Officer for the National Quantum Computing Centre followed by transitioning into an Outreach and Education Lead role at the centre in 2024. This role enables me to combine my passion for public engagement with the technical expertise in quantum technology that I developed during my time as a physics researcher. I enjoy breaking down complicated quantum physics concepts in an engaging and creative way for a variety of different audiences. I’m also passionate about using outreach to encourage young people from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue physics as a career. Much of my work involves facilitating quantum-specific public engagement through working with a range of researchers nationally and helping them translate their research in accessible ways by providing training, enabling co-creation and coordinating delivery of public engagement activities.

Learn more about my Public Engagement and Science Communication

Writing

I regularly write about physics and equality, diversity, and inclusion topics. As well as running my own blog, I also write science articles and guest blogs for a variety of websites and publications, such as Physics World. Here are a few examples of my science writing and guest blogging:

Spin guided scattering of light is observed in a liquid crystal | Physics World
A tiny particle collider yields new evidence for a type of ‘quasiparticles’ called anyons | Massive Science
Spin valve uses coupled quantum dots and tiny magnetic fields | Physics World
Embracing neurodiversity in science | Little Science Co

Teaching and education

I am an enthusiastic physics educator both in the traditional higher education setting and using more experimental and wide-reaching online methods. Previously, I have been a lab demonstrator and teaching assistant for a variety of physical science modules. I also completed a Graduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning, where I explored inclusive pedagogy theory in the physics classroom and laboratory as well as the potential of hybrid learning environments to support hands-on learning. In my current role, I’m interested in how we learn and create an understanding of quantum topics in informal and formal educational settings. Additionally, I am currently pursuing a master’s in education, focusing on quantum computing education for school-age learners.

Learn more about my teaching

Research

As part of my role at the National Quantum Computing Centre, I conduct practitioner research on quantum computing science communication, public engagement and education. I'm particularly fascinated by how different people form an understanding of quantum topics and inclusive pedagogical approaches. Throughout my career, I aim to find the best ways to teach quantum science and technology topics in formal and informal learning spaces. My research and practice also focuses on responsible communication of quantum topics to build public awareness and understanding.

My technical research was in the field of semiconductor spintronics. Specifically, investigating ways to utilise the strong spin-orbit coupling in InSb-based materials to manipulate electron spin in semiconductors for quantum technology and metrology applications. My work involved the development of novel direct-write fabrication techniques using the focused ion beam to create structures such as quantum wires and quantum point contacts, fundamental physics experiments investigating spin-orbit interaction in InSb materials, and computational modelling of a variety of InSb nanostructures.

Learn more about my research

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

I am a passionate advocate and campaigner for E,D&I in STEM, taking part in a variety of E,D&I activities such as founding the Neurodivergent in STEM project, planning and organizing the peer mentoring scheme for IPPSnet, sitting on the Surrey physics E,D&I committee as the PGR representative, and founding the staff and student neurodiversity networks at the University of Surrey.

Learn more about ED&I activities

Get in touch

To get in contact, email contact@daisyshearer.com or click here.

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