
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.

Honours & Distinctions
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Recognized for services to space science.
Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS)
Elected for her contributions to planetary science.
Astronomer Royal
Appointed as the sixteenth Astronomer Royal, the first woman to hold the position.
Records & Feats
First female Astronomer Royal
Michele Dougherty became the first woman to be appointed Astronomer Royal in the title's 350-year history, breaking a long-standing gender barrier.