Available to book
Ian Johnston
Science
Innovation
Critical Thinking
Explore innovative solutions for sustainable engineering challenges with Dr Ian Johnston, speaker, academic engineer and consultant.
Educator
Innovator
STEM
Academic
Broadcaster
Scientist
Philanthropy
Inspirational
Environmentalist
Ian Johnston is an academic engineer and applied mathematician dedicated to making science accessible to all. With a doctorate in superconductivity, he has a wealth of knowledge in his field and has contributed to various educational programmes, including serving as a scientific expert on BBC's "Bang Goes The Theory" and "Battle of the Geeks." His commitment to inspiring future generations in engineering is evident in his belief that we are on the brink of a new scientific and industrial revolution, one that requires innovative minds to tackle sustainability challenges.
Ian's journey has been anything but conventional. After studying engineering science at Oxford, he initially focused on research related to artificial knee joints. However, he took a sabbatical to pursue a passion for ballet, training full-time before returning to academia. This unique experience enriches his approach to teaching and outreach, as he continues to engage with the arts as an amateur dancer.
Since 1991, Ian has been a Staff Tutor at the Open University, overseeing technology courses across Scotland. His inventive spirit is showcased through his informal research, leading to the creation of the Aeromat, a highly flippable drinks mat, and the Technotowel, designed to stay in place while answering the door. Although these inventions have yet to reach production, they reflect his creativity and willingness to explore new ideas.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Ian founded the EcoWeek Trust, which organises environmentally themed holidays for children, fostering a love for nature and sustainability. His diverse background and dedication to education make him a compelling figure in the field of engineering, inspiring others to join the quest for innovative solutions to global challenges.
Dr. Ian Johnston, a renowned academic engineer and consultant, brings expertise in superconductivity and a passion for inspiring future engineers. With roles in BBC's "Bang Goes The Theory" and "Battle of the Geeks," his insights address today's challenges. Book him to foster innovation in your team.
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Email hello@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Dr Ian's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
Ian Johnston draws on his background as an academic engineer and applied mathematician to make complex scientific concepts accessible, grounding his sessions in real-world applications and sustainability challenges. His presentations are informed by his work with the Open University and his consultancy on BBC science programmes, lending his material institutional credibility and public-facing clarity.
Dr Ian Johnston speaks on engineering science, sustainability and innovation, and science communication and public engagement. He holds a doctorate in superconductivity from Oxford and has served as a scientific expert on BBC programmes Bang Goes The Theory and Battle of the Geeks.
No. PepTalk adds no booking fee, so you pay the speaker's fee and nothing beyond it. The service, from shortlist through to contracts and event-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, PepTalk can agree preferential rates with your procurement team.
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Three to six months ahead is comfortable for most events, and 12 months is better for large conferences, peak-season dates or one specific in-demand speaker. Shorter timelines are workable, and PepTalk regularly fills last-minute and replacement bookings within days. Availability is the constraint, so get in touch as soon as you have a date.
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