PICTURED: PROFESSOR SAIFUL ISLAM PROFESSOR SAIFUL ISLAM Saiful Islam is Professor of Materials Chemistry at the University of Bath, a Royal Institution Christmas Lecturer, a patron of Humanists UK, and a proud dad of two.

Is it essential that all children humanist since my late teens, before receive a good science education? I even knew what the terms actually Yes! But not all children need to study meant. I couldn’t see how following a science at a high level. It’s important supernatural deity added anything to that children understand how science my understanding of the world around works. In doing so you can find out me. I went to a multicultural school in about the world and universe through north London with a variety of faiths. rational investigation, observation, But I couldn’t see how everyone’s and evidence, and that science can be religion was right! Through science full of beauty and exciting discovery. at school I discovered the beauty of Modern civilisation has been largely gaining knowledge through evidence built on science working. Literary and and reason. I try to be optimistic and artistic education are also crucial. always look on the bright side of life. Indeed, science and art often share a similar spirit of wonder. It’s also Which Humanists UK campaign is important that a true education closest to your heart? system is inclusive of children of all Repealing blasphemy laws. Such backgrounds. laws are used to discriminate against religious minorities and the non- What continues to fascinate you religious. It’s incredibly sad and about your research? disturbing that blasphemy or apostasy Low carbon energy is one of the is still punishable by death in 13 most urgent challenges of our time countries (including Pakistan where in tackling climate change. The I was born), and a person can be next generation of greener energy imprisoned in a further 47 countries. technologies depends on new Closer to home, blasphemy remains a materials and greater understanding. criminal offence in . Not all chemists wear lab coats. My research uses powerful computer Tell us about your Royal Institution modelling techniques to help develop Christmas Lectures. new lithium battery materials for I was hugely honoured to present electric cars and a new type of solar the prestigious Christmas Lectures cell compound called perovskite. in 2016 for BBC TV on the theme of So when people ask me what I do, I energy (titled Supercharged: Fuelling sometimes say ‘I model!’ the Future). It’s a real privilege to be part of a long line of scientists like Sir When did you become a humanist? , , I grew up in a Muslim household as and Carl Sagan. One of our demos my name suggests. My mum was achieved a Guinness World Record for religious and my dad much less so. the highest voltage (1,200 V) from a I don’t recall ever having a strong lemon battery using more than faith and I was probably an atheist or 1,000 lemons!

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