Celebrating the women of the Science Park this International Women’s Day
Science and technology have long been shaped by the contributions of brilliant women, even when their work has not always received the recognition they deserved. From early pioneers whose discoveries were overlooked to the many women who continue to navigate underrepresentation in technical and leadership roles today, progress in these fields has often been hard won. Yet despite that progress, women still make up only around 28% of the global STEM workforce, according to research from World Economic Forum. International Women’s Day offers an opportunity to recognise both that history and the people helping shape a more inclusive future.
Across Southampton Science Park there are many talented women contributing to the success of the businesses and organisations based here. This year, colleagues from across the Park were invited to nominate women from their teams whose work, leadership and dedication make a meaningful difference to those around them. Among the many women working across the Science Park community, the individuals below were put forward by their colleagues in recognition of the impact they make every day.
Anna McAllister
Full Stack Engineer, Kaleido
Anna McAllister was nominated by colleagues for the expertise and composure she brings to tackling some of the most complex challenges in emerging technology. As a Full Stack Engineer at Kaleido, she plays an important role in advancing the adoption and future direction of blockchain and Web3 technologies.
Anna is a key contributor to the Kaleido platform, which is used by leading global institutions as a trusted Web3 infrastructure. Working across an international team, she combines deep technical knowledge with clear communication, helping deliver sophisticated solutions for enterprise clients while also contributing to cutting edge open source projects. Her work on Paladin, part of the Linux Foundation’s Decentralized Trust initiative, supports the development of programmable privacy within EVM based systems.
Colleagues value Anna’s knowledge, calm approach and ability to think clearly through complex problems. She is widely trusted across the team and always willing to offer support when others need it.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Skillful. Composed. Impactful.
Anushka Kulkarni
Finance Officer, Labl.IT
Anushka Kulkarni was nominated by colleagues at Labl.IT in recognition of the vital role she has played in the company’s growth. A graduate of the University of Southampton, Anushka joined the business straight after completing her studies and has grown alongside it, becoming the second longest serving member of the team.
Joining at a time of rapid expansion, she helped establish structure and clarity within the company’s financial operations. One of her most significant contributions has been developing Labl.IT’s first comprehensive cashflow forecasting model. Built from the ground up, it provides leadership with the forward visibility needed to plan recruitment, investment and growth with confidence, transforming financial planning from reactive to proactive.
Beyond her technical expertise, colleagues value the energy and positivity Anushka brings to the workplace. Known for her unmistakable laugh and her willingness to support others wherever needed, she is someone the whole team relies on. She is also the office’s resident Formula 1 expert, often bringing colleagues together through her enthusiasm for the sport.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Easy going. Capable. Professional.
Claire Knight
Sales and Administration Coordinator, Appear
Claire Knight was nominated by colleagues for the vital role she plays in supporting the UK business at Appear. Known as the backbone of the team, Claire has been instrumental during a period of significant transition, helping the business navigate changes in senior leadership while maintaining stability and momentum.
Throughout this time, Claire has provided invaluable support to the new General Manager, helping guide him through the day to day operations of the UK business. Alongside this, she has expanded her own team, successfully recruiting two new colleagues who are already making a strong contribution. Her work has helped support the continued growth of the UK operation during a fast moving phase for the business, including its journey towards becoming a publicly listed company.
Colleagues value Claire for her professionalism, warmth and reliability. She brings a welcoming presence to the workplace while maintaining the highest standards in everything she does. And for many in the office, her much loved dog Koda is an added bonus that always brightens the day.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Knowledgeable. Amazing. Invaluable.
Daniela Zertuche
PhD Student, Water and Environmental Engineering Group
Daniela Zertuche was nominated by colleagues for the energy, generosity and positivity she brings to life at the Future Towns Innovation Hub. Alongside her own PhD research in the Water and Environmental Engineering Group, Daniela plays an active role in the wider community, always willing to lend a hand and support those around her.
She regularly goes above and beyond to assist fellow students and staff with lab work and collaborative projects, contributing to the shared spirit that makes the hub such a supportive environment. Daniela also takes a genuine interest in the wellbeing of those around her, helping to create a workplace where people feel encouraged and connected.
Her enthusiasm is felt in the everyday moments too. Known for celebrating everything from Christmas to Valentine’s Day, Daniela often brings sweets and small gifts to mark the occasion, adding a sense of fun and togetherness to busy working days.
Colleagues value her positivity, her willingness to get involved and the can do attitude she brings to every challenge.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Powerful. Ambitious. Endearing.
Lauren James
Operations and Engagement Manager, Spectrum IT
Lauren James was nominated by colleagues for the energy and commitment she brings to supporting both her team and the wider tech community. As Operations and Engagement Manager at Spectrum IT, she plays an important role in helping colleagues achieve their goals, always looking for ways to strengthen recruitment, marketing and brand activity across the business.
A particular passion for Lauren is creating opportunities for people to connect. Over the past two years she has helped grow Spectrum IT’s events programme, regularly bringing together between over 100 attendees. Through initiatives such as Women in Tech Hampshire, she is also helping to build a supportive community for women in the industry, creating spaces where people can share experiences, support one another and feel part of something bigger.
Colleagues value Lauren’s instinct to prioritise others and the supportive approach she brings to her work. Known as a natural people person, she creates an atmosphere where others feel comfortable, welcomed and encouraged to get involved.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Outgoing. Passionate. Supportive.
Louise Hinchcliff
Chief Financial Officer, Zenergi
Louise Hinchcliff was nominated by colleagues as a powerful example of modern leadership in action. As Chief Financial Officer at Zenergi, she operates at board level in the traditionally male dominated energy sector, bringing clarity, commercial strength and a steady hand to the business.
Her leadership is defined not only by her strategic thinking but also by the example she sets. Balancing the responsibilities of senior leadership with family life as a mother of two, Louise demonstrates that there is no single mould for success. Her presence at board level helps open doors for other women in the industry, showing that confidence, authenticity and resilience are powerful qualities in leadership.
Colleagues particularly value Louise’s tenacity and her ability to remain calm and solutions focused when facing complex challenges. At the same time, her resilience is grounded in empathy. She sets high standards while creating an environment where people feel trusted, supported and encouraged to step up.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Resilient. Bold. Inspiring.
Paula Flowers
Office Manager and People Leader, ITDev
Paula Flowers was nominated by her colleagues at ITDev, who describe her as someone whose influence is felt across the whole organisation. As Office Manager and People Group Leader, she brings together professionalism, empathy and deep expertise to help create a workplace where people feel supported, valued and able to do their best work.
One of the ways Paula has made a lasting impact is through her role as a Mental Health First Aider. She has helped shape ITDev’s approach to wellbeing by introducing practical initiatives, strengthening policies and building support systems that make a real difference to colleagues’ everyday experience. Thanks to her work, conversations around mental health are more open and support is easier to access.
Her colleagues value Paula’s calm professionalism, her expert knowledge of HR and employment law, and the genuine care she brings to her role. She is trusted for her thoughtful guidance, her commitment to fairness and inclusion, and the way she consistently puts people at the heart of what she does.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Dedicated. Compassionate. Empathetic.
Ruby Jackson
Operations Manager, Faculty Central (FEPS), University of Southampton and Future Towns Innovation Hub
Ruby Jackson was nominated by colleagues for the energy, organisation and dedication she brings to supporting innovation and collaboration across the Science Park community. As Operations Manager for Faculty Central (FEPS) at the University of Southampton and the Future Towns Innovation Hub, she plays a central role in ensuring initiatives run smoothly and continue to grow.
Ruby has been instrumental in the creation and ongoing management of the Future Towns Innovation Hub, helping it develop into a vibrant space where researchers, innovators and partners can connect and collaborate. She has also helped establish Clean Water South, a networking and action focused group that continues to bring people together around shared environmental challenges and is now entering its fourth edition.
Beyond the projects she leads, Ruby is known for the vibrancy and warmth she brings to the park. Colleagues value her reliability and resourcefulness, as well as her proactive approach to making things happen. With a strong sense of discipline and a genuine enthusiasm for supporting others, she plays an important role in helping the wider community thrive.
Described by her colleagues in three words: Hardworking. Disciplined. Motivated.
Taken together, these nominations offer a powerful snapshot of the talent, leadership and ambition that exists across the Science Park community. The businesses based here span sectors including energy, health, data and advanced technology, creating an entrepreneurial environment where ideas, expertise and opportunities naturally intersect. Through a combination of collaboration, networking and a strong sense of community, the Park continues to support businesses as they grow and, in turn, create exciting career opportunities for the people behind them.
As we mark International Women’s Day, we are proud to recognise the women nominated by their colleagues and the contribution they make every day to the organisations and teams around them. Their achievements reflect not only individual excellence, but the strength of a community where talented women at all stages of their careers can thrive.
