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    Michele Dougherty

    Michele Dougherty

    Awards & Honours

    0

    Awards Won

    3

    Honours

    1

    Records

    Michele Dougherty's career is marked by historic achievements. She is the first woman to serve as Astronomer Royal, a title held by luminaries like John Flamsteed and Sir Martin Rees. Her leadership of the J-MAG instrument on JUICE puts her at the forefront of one of the most ambitious space missions ever launched. As Executive Chair of STFC, she oversees a budget that funds cutting-edge research in particle physics and space science. Her advocacy for early-career researchers has been a defining feature of her tenure, and she has been a vocal champion for science funding in the UK. Her contributions have earned her fellowships in prestigious societies and widespread respect among her peers.

    Michele Dougherty receiving an award

    Honours & Distinctions

    Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

    UK Government·2018

    Recognized for services to space science.

    Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS)

    Royal Society·2020

    Elected for her contributions to planetary science.

    Astronomer Royal

    UK Royal Household·2025

    Appointed as the sixteenth Astronomer Royal, the first woman to hold the position.

    Records & Feats

    First female Astronomer Royal

    Historic First·2025

    Michele Dougherty became the first woman to be appointed Astronomer Royal in the title's 350-year history, breaking a long-standing gender barrier.