A SCIENTIST from Stretford presented her research to MPs in Westminster, after entering a national competition.

Emma Simpson, a third year PhD student at the University of Manchester, put the politicians in the picture about cloud formation during her talk, at the SET for Britain academic poster awards in Westminster.

Stretford and Urmston MP Kate Green was among the politicians who attended.

Emma was inspired to enter the awards after being told about the prestigious event by a colleague.

Hundreds of aspiring scientists applied to take part and Emma was one of the lucky researchers chosen to present her poster to judges and MPs in Parliament.

Emma began her research on cloud formation after developing a thirst for knowledge on the workings of clouds during her undergraduate degree in meteorology and atmospheric science.

She now hopes to complete her PhD at the end of this year and continue in academia to learn more about clouds and how they work.

The overall aim of SET for Britain is to encourage, support and promote Britain's early-stage and early-career research scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians.

Emma said, “I was excited and proud to have been selected to present at this year’s SET for Britain awards.

“Attending the event was a unique experience. I enjoyed explaining my research to MPs and others who I would not have otherwise had the opportunity to interact with.”

Ms Green said: “It was great to chat with Emma and hear all about her fascinating research. It’s not every day I get to learn about cloud formation and so I was pleased that I got to learn something new.

“Emma is a great example for any local young woman looking to develop a career in science and I wish her every success in completing her PhD and in her future research.”