Five Questions with Ruth Milne

Tell us a little bit about your background

My research background is in cellular and molecular neuroscience but once I discovered that my editorial skills were far superior to my lab skills I left research and moved into academic publishing. I spent a number of years at the Royal Society managing the publication process across several of their journals, before moving into a communication and engagement-based role at Nature Research.   

What do you like about working in Higher Education?

The people. It’s great to work amongst such a diverse community – there’s always something new to learn. I also find it super rewarding to play a part in communicating the impact and excellence of research being carried at UCL.

What are you passionate about outside of work?

Any excuse to bake and I’m there. Actually, it’ll soon be time to make a start on my Christmas cake… I love going to the theatre to see the ballet, plays, musicals, everything. The last show I saw before the pandemic put a stop to this activity was Hamilton. It was amazing! I also have a soft-spot for Brutalist architecture – the Barbican Centre is one of my favourite places to visit in London. It also has a brilliant theatre!

What’s the last good book you read?

Margaret Atwood ‘The Testaments’. In anticipation, I re-read The Handmaid’s Tale and only allowed myself to watch the first season of the TV series. Both books are great, I can highly recommend.  

Tell us something interesting about yourself

My first job when I left research was as a Picture Researcher for the Wellcome Trust. This might seem a little odd but my research skills came in handy, and a lot of the experience I picked up here I still use today.  I am also left handed which means I struggle cutting bread, opening tins, and using scissors. It’s a right-handed world out there!