PUBLIC PROGRAMMES
Talks and events
More than 100 public talks in the UK and internationally, from science festivals and public lectures to schools and community events.
UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX · BRIGHTON, UK
Professor
Stephen Wilkins
Astronomy and the Public Understanding of Science
I explore how the first galaxies formed and evolved, and share the wonder of the Universe with everyone.
Photo
to come
to come
RESEARCH
Understanding galaxies across cosmic time.
My work combines observations and simulations to study the formation and evolution of galaxies, especially in the early Universe.
01
Observations
Using JWST, Hubble, ALMA and the VLT to uncover the first billion years of cosmic history.
02
Synthetic observations
Developing Synthesizer to create realistic virtual observations from simulations.
TEACHING & ADMINISTRATION
Teaching, leadership
and academic community.
I supervise PhD students and teach across astronomy, physics and data science. I am committed to helping students develop independent research skills, curiosity and confidence.
As Head of Physics and Astronomy, I provide strategic and operational leadership for a department of more than 150 staff and PhD students, supporting the delivery of research and teaching at scale.
Teaching
- Stellar & Planetary Physics
- BSc, MPhys & MSc Research Projects
- Established the Sussex Data Science MSc programme
- ACES summer school and SAZERAC conference
Administration
- Head of Physics and Astronomy 2025–
- Head of Astronomy 2020–2025
- Director of Civic and Public Engagement 2020–2025
- Leadership in Public Engagement Fellow 2018–2023
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Science belongs to everyone.
Public engagement is central to my work: creating experiences that connect astronomy and discovery with audiences of all ages.
From community events and immersive experiences to talks and exhibitions, I work with partners across science, culture and education to make research more accessible.
EXPERIENCES & CONSULTANCY
Exhibitions, XR and Syzygy Labs
Lead exhibitor at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition and a scientific consultant for museums and media projects. Through Syzygy Labs, I build engaging exhibits and offer scientific consultancy for creative, cultural and commercial partners.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Curiosity Sussex and Herstmonceux
Founder and chair of Curiosity Sussex, delivering free science activities across Sussex. I am also Astronomer in Residence at the Observatory Science Centre and trustee of Science Projects.