Lewis Dartnell

Professor Lewis Dartnell is a leading astrobiologist, author, and science communicator, renowned for exploring the connections between science, humanity, and the universe.

Professor Lewis Dartnell is a renowned British astrobiologist, author, and science communicator, celebrated for his work exploring the intersections of life, science, and human history. Currently a Professor of Science Communication at the University of Westminster, his research focuses on the potential for microbial life on Mars, the detection of biosignatures in extreme environments, and the broader understanding of how science shapes our world.

Lewis graduated with a First-Class degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Oxford before earning his PhD at University College London in 2007. His academic career has been complemented by an unwavering commitment to making science accessible and engaging to the public. As an award-winning communicator, he has delivered live events at schools and science festivals, served as a scientific consultant for major media productions, and appeared in numerous television documentaries and radio programmes.

As an author, Lewis has captivated readers with his ability to weave complex scientific concepts into compelling narratives. His international bestseller, The Knowledge: How to Rebuild Our World from Scratch, provides a guide to jump-starting civilisation in the event of an apocalypse. This was followed by Origins: How the Earth Shaped Human History, a Sunday Times top history book of 2019, which examines how planetary forces have shaped the course of human civilisation. His most recent book, Being Human: How Our Biology Shaped World History, published in June 2023, delves into the biological underpinnings of human behaviour and its role in world history, earning a place on Waterstones' Book of the Year list.

Beyond his literary accomplishments, Lewis is a highly sought-after speaker, bringing science to life for diverse audiences. His presentations blend academic rigour with engaging storytelling, inspiring curiosity and understanding. He also contributes regularly to newspapers and magazines, bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and public discourse.

Lewis Dartnell's work exemplifies the power of science to illuminate not just the universe but also humanity’s place within it. Through his research, writing, and communication, he continues to inspire new ways of thinking about our past, present, and future.