Graveney alumnus awarded 'Women in Innovation' Purple Plaque

We were delighted to welcome back Graveney alumnus Lydia Mapstone, PhD, CEO and co-founder of biotech company BoobyBiome to present her with her Women in Innovation Purple Plaque.

Lydia was joined for the unveiling by year 12 & 13 FemSTEM students who support each other through A level and going on STEM trips in their spare time.

Her company is working to identify the bacteria that occur naturally in breast milk and are key in the development of the infant gut. “The microbiome is a collection of microorganisms that reside on and in us and is crucial in regulating digestive, immune and metabolic functions,” she explains. “Babies without access to breast milk are vulnerable to microbiome-related diseases such as allergies, asthma and diabetes.”

Innovate UK are inspiring girls by inviting trailblazing scientists like Lydia back to their schools, to speak to students about working in STEM careers. We hope she will return next year to talk about her journey in science from school to CEO, and continue to show that women can change the world through innovation.