Emma Needham
Research Communications Manager

Profile

Biography

Emma’s role is to steer the research communications strategy at SEI York. Her responsibilities include raising the profile of SEI York among its key stakeholders and overseeing the project communications delivered by the communications team. This involves close collaboration with researchers to ensure that their scientific findings are effectively communicated, driving impact on critical environmental and development issues. Additionally, Emma works with the global communication and impact divisions at SEI HQ, aligning SEI York’s communications with the broader SEI strategy.

Before her current role, Emma was responsible for the external communications at the Biorenewables Development Centre (a subsidiary of the University of York). Here, she developed and implemented a communications strategy aimed at engaging a diverse range of bioeconomy stakeholders. Notably, Emma led the communications and dissemination for two EU-funded projects focused on innovative uses for food waste. Prior to this, Emma worked at the University of Sheffield. She was responsible for communicating the impact of research partnerships within the Faculty of Engineering and Professional Services, highlighting significant research contributions and fostering collaborations.

Emma holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Business and Finance from Sheffield Hallam University where she specialised in marketing and communications. She furthered her studies with the Chartered Institute of Marketing through the Oxford College of Marketing, enhancing her expertise in the field.