Derry's Katrina Bradley honoured with prestigious Fellow of UK Academy for Mathematical Sciences

Derry-born mathematics pioneer Katrina Bradley has been named an inaugural Fellow of the UK Academy for the Mathematical Sciences, a landmark appointment welcomed by Ulster University. A former student and current guest lecturer, Katrina was selected for the new national body to place mathematics at the heart of UK policy making, economic resilience and future technologies.

Katrina is among the inaugural cohort of 100 Fellows drawn from academia, education, industry and government, who will collaborate to address major national challenges including pandemic preparedness, economic transformation, national security and the safe development of artificial intelligence. 

Her appointment recognises national leadership in mathematics education, inclusion and public engagement, and reflects work she is currently delivering in partnership with Ulster University to strengthen the mathematical skills pipeline and widen participation across further and higher education. 

Professor Dame Alison Etheridge DBE FRS, the President of the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences, said: “I’m delighted to welcome our inaugural Fellows – individuals of exceptional distinction who collectively advance the mathematical sciences through discovery, leadership, education and real-world application. 

“As Fellows of the Academy, they will come together in service of the wider public good: bringing independent expertise to bear on national priorities, championing excellence in mathematics education, strengthening the UK’s research and innovation base, and helping to ensure that mathematics continues to deliver opportunity, resilience and prosperity across our four nations.” 

Katrina Bradley said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be appointed a Fellow of the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences.

“Working with Ulster University across teaching, neuroinclusive practice and community engagement has been a hugely important part of my work. Together, we share a commitment to making mathematics meaningful, accessible and empowering – not just for academic success, but for life.

“This Fellowship is a real opportunity to champion inclusive mathematics education at a national level, and I’m proud to continue that work in collaboration with Ulster University.” 

Professor Colin Turner, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Ulster University, said: “Katrina’s appointment as a Fellow of the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences is a significant and richly deserved achievement.

“As a valued University engagement partner, she exemplifies Ulster University’s commitment to widening participation and the meaningful application of knowledge to address societal challenges.

“Her work in mathematics education, in primary and secondary schools, but linked into further and higher education and government skills initiatives is unique - working with staff, students and parents to build skills and confidence while challenging maths anxiety. We are proud to continue working in partnership with her.”

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Katrina works closely with Ulster University across teaching, community engagement and collaborative practice, aligned with the Academy’s ambition to strengthen mathematics education and skills across the UK. 

As a guest lecturer on Ulster University’s Hypatia course, she supports vocational lecturers across the Regional Colleges to embed mathematics in ways that are visible, applied and purposeful, helping learners understand how mathematical thinking underpins skills, employability and progression. 

She also contributes to Ulster University’s NeuroBridge course, supporting Regional College lecturers to develop neuroinclusive approaches to teaching and learning, with a focus on practical adjustments and evidence-informed strategies that enable neurodivergent learners to thrive. 

Beyond formal teaching, Katrina works as a community delivery partner through Primary NumeraSee, connecting Ulster University expertise with schools, families and community settings to translate research and pedagogy into engaging, hands-on mathematical experiences to make numeracy both exciting and accessible for young learners. 

Together with Ulster University colleagues and regional partners, this work promotes mathematics as a vital life skill, while creating inclusive pathways into further study, employment and participation in a rapidly changing economy.