Celebrating National Science Week at DSIT

My name is Saffron Price-Finnerty, and I am the Deputy Head of Space Regulation in the International Resilience and Regulation team within the Space Directorate at DSIT. I am currently on assignment to DSIT for a year from the Environment Agency. Before joining the Space Directorate, I worked in the nuclear industry for 26 years since leaving university; at Sellafield Limited for 10 years and for 16 years at the Environment Agency in nuclear regulation.?

I have undertaken extremely interesting and rewarding work in the department and have had some exciting opportunities to get involved with high-profile pieces of work. For example, I have been part of the UK delegation attending the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) plenary in Vienna, I have discussed space sustainability with astronauts, and I have even met His Majesty King Charles III with respect to his initiative on sustainability in outer space (Astra Carta). My final project is working on a Space Regulatory Review - The UK has a trusted, world-leading modern space regulatory framework but in a world of constantly evolving technological advancements, we cannot afford to be complacent, so this targeted review explores ambitious, novel and emerging areas where we need to act now if we are to maintain an innovative, attractive and competitive regulatory environment for the UK space sector.?

I was attracted to the department because of its incredibly friendly, supportive, and inclusive culture and diversity of people. Space has very similar challenges and opportunities to nuclear, so I brought my industry and regulation experience and stakeholder engagement skills to the department.??

My confidence has thrived working in such an inclusive workplace and working within the innovative space industry, and I have gained invaluable experience working in government.??

If you fancy a job in the Space Directorate, go for it. I have shown that skills from other sectors are transferable.? If I can do it, anyone can.?

To find out more about jobs in science, technology, and other job opportunities at DSIT, visit civil service jobs https://lnkd.in/dzzThzUy

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