STEM for BRITAIN is an esteemed national competition organised by the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, aimed at providing members of both Houses of Parliament with insight into the outstanding research being conducted at UK universities by the country’s brightest early-career researchers. 

Elizabeth was selected from a highly competitive field of early-career researchers across the UK and is one of just 30 engineering researchers invited to present their work. Her research tackles the critical public health issue of infectious pathogens spreading through toilet plume bioaerosols in public toilets. Elizabeth’s pioneering study introduces an empirical model designed to predict and mitigate pathogen exposure and offers valuable insights that could reform public toilet design, enhance hygiene infrastructure, and inform infection control policies. 

On 11 March 2025, Elizabeth will present her research at the House of Commons, competing alongside other top researchers for the Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards in the Engineering category. Winning Gold in the Engineering category could also qualify her for the Westminster Medal, awarded to the overall top researcher across all disciplines. 

Reflecting on this opportunity, Elizabeth said: "I am honoured to be selected as a finalist for STEM for BRITAIN. This is a great opportunity to highlight the impact of my research and engage with policymakers on overlooked factors contributing to the spread of infections and antimicrobial resistance. I look forward to sharing my findings and contributing to meaningful discussions at Parliament."