Three Oxford researchers win top UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships

Three Oxford academics have today been awarded major financial backing with UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships - for their 'world-class research and innovation' into space flight, high risk pregnancy and finding answers to chaotic public out-sourcing. Science Minister Amanda Solloway announced some 100 new Fellows, who will share in £109 million funding, with individual researchers receiving up to £1.5 million. Oxford's three delighted winners are: Dr Eleanor Carter, Dr Tobias Hermann and Dr Jane Hirst. Dr Carter  of the  Blavatnik School of Government  will be investigating the critical issue of how government can better manage public services outsourcing.  Currently acting research director of the  Government Outcomes Lab , Dr Carter says, 'I am thrilled. My Fellowship will bring diligent and original research to help avert further public contracting fiascos and boost the quality of services experienced by some of the most disadvantaged members of society.' Oxford's three winners are: Dr Eleanor Carter, Dr Tobias Hermann and Dr Jane Hirst Dr Hermann , Senior Research Associate in Hypersonics at the Oxford Thermofluids Institute , was among a small number of researchers whose work was highlighted by UKRI. He aims to ensure that future spacecraft are able to re-enter the earth's atmosphere safely despite being exposed to extreme heat. Dr Hermann says, 'The UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship is a gigantic step for me personally and a milestone in my career. It enables me to follow through on a hugely ambitious project.' He adds, 'The long-term focus of the project is to build a platform for exciting future research in hypersonics.