Humanists UK is delighted to announce the appointment of two new patrons, neuroscientist Dr Hannah Critchlow and astrophysicist Dr Alfredo Carpineti. They join more than 200 Humanists UK patrons with notable careers in arts, literature, science, academia, politics, and community and civic activism.
Dr Hannah Critchlow is an internationally acclaimed neuroscientist, broadcaster, and author. A Fellow at Magdalene College, University of Cambridge, her expertise spans consciousness, learning and memory, decision-making, intelligence, collaboration between minds, and our relationship with AI.. In 2026, she was awarded the Rosalind Franklin Medal for her outstanding work in science communication, following previous recognition by Nature as a ‘Rising Star in Life Sciences’ and by the UK Science Council as a ‘Top 100 UK scientist’. Her best-selling books include the Sunday Times bestselling The Science of Fate as well as Joined-up Thinking which was met with critical acclaim.
Dr Alfredo Carpineti is an Italian astrophysicist, science journalist, and social activist. As the Senior Staff Writer & Space Correspondent for IFLScience, he has authored over 6,000 articles, bringing complex scientific concepts to millions of readers. Beyond his scientific work, he is the chair and founder of Pride in STEM, a charity dedicated to supporting and showcasing LGBTQ+ people in science and engineering. His upcoming book, Invisible Rainbows, to be published in May this year, was also the topic of a talk Alfredo delivered at Humanists UK’s 2025 Convention. Alfredo will also be speaking at the 2026 Festival of Humanism in Bournemouth this June.
Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson commented:
‘It is a great pleasure to welcome Hannah and Alfredo as patrons. Both are exceptional communicators who have shown their immense skill and passion for expanding our understanding of the universe and ourselves through reason, evidence, and empathy. We look forward to working with them and learning more about the invisible wonders of both the human condition and the natural world. Welcome!’
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Head of Press and Campaign Communications Nathan Stilwell at press@humanists.uk or phone 0203 675 0959 (media only).
Humanists UK has over 200 patrons who support its work in various ways through their expertise and prominence in various fields. Existing patrons include significant figures from the spheres of science, philosophy, human rights activism, politics, the arts, and broadcasting. The President of Humanists UK is broadcaster and writer Janet Ellis. She is supported by Vice Presidents Professor Alice Roberts, Dr Adam Rutherford, Shaparak Khorsandi, Laurie Taylor, Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Professor AC Grayling, and Polly Toynbee.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 150,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.