Meet Emma

Meet Emma - who studied BSc (Honours) Biology and Psychology

Emma Keogh - Alumna

Tell us about your career path since graduation. How did you end up where you are?

I’ve had a whirlwind career since graduating - right where science and engineering meet but always guided by my dream of becoming an astronaut.

After graduation I gained clinical experience working with a patient with a neuro-disability in a hospital, while also studying part-time for a MSc in Biomedical Engineering. Reorienting myself to pursue my astronaut goals, I then joined the Ministry of Defence as a defence engineer in aerospace. From there I moved into aircrew systems and trained as a Flight Test Observer (FTO), taking advantage of every opportunity to learn new skills helping me get closer to my goal. Alongside aerospace engineering, I’m now currently working part-time as a microbiologist in containment, building on my biology foundation.

I’ve also served as a citizen scientist at the European Space Agency (ESA), trained at the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS) and have recently completed the International Space University’s Space Studies Program in South Korea, where I broadened my expertise across space science, engineering, law, business, and medicine. Although I’m not yet part of an astronaut corps, I’ve been able to pursue citizen-science astronaut training through private sponsorship and continue to prepare myself for future government or commercial astronaut opportunities.

My path has never been linear, but it has always been adaptive - rooted in curiosity, compassion, resilience, and the drive to bring my best to the future of human spaceflight.

What was it about your time at Royal Holloway that has most benefitted your career or influenced your path since graduation?

My time at Royal Holloway gave me the perfect grounding for the multidisciplinary career I’ve built since. Studying a joint honours in Biology and Psychology with a neuroscience specialisation equipped me with strong biomedical laboratory skills and my foundation in microbiology that now underpins my part-time role as a microbiologist. The opportunity to study a wide range of modules across biological and biomedical sciences was invaluable.

Beyond content knowledge, the degree shaped the way I think. The programme taught me to integrate biological and psychological perspectives, to analyse complex systems, and to problem-solve across disciplines - skills that have proved just as vital in engineering as in science. Looking back, Royal Holloway gave me not only my first real foundation as a scientist, but also the analytical mindset and adaptability that continue to carry me forward in my career.

What would you say to potential students considering studying at Royal Holloway?

Go for it and take advantage of as many experiences as you can. There’s so much on offer at Royal Holloway so make the most of them. Royal Holloway is a great place for all-rounders with a passion for knowledge and curiosity - somewhere to explore new subjects, try new things, and develop yourself beyond your degree. There are also excellent opportunities to pursue awards and seek career advice, which can make a real difference in shaping your path.

What advice would you give to students thinking about a career in your sector?

For a career in STEM, my advice is that while it can be challenging, it is also hugely rewarding. You will never be bored - there is always something new to learn, discover, or improve at. Within the aerospace industry in particular, you are at the forefront of innovation and exploration, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of what is possible. It’s a field that rewards resilience, adaptability, and curiosity, and it’s an incredible place to build a career if you want to make an impact.

What did you love most about your time at Royal Holloway?

I loved the lab practicals most of all. The experiments in anatomy and physiology were fascinating, and the brain dissection during my neuroscience class was an unforgettable experience. Beyond the labs, I really valued the people. Royal Holloway has such a close-knit community - you don’t need to study the same subject to make lasting connections. Some of my closest friends majored in English Literature and Classics at Royal Holloway.

I also enjoyed contributing as a volunteer during Royal Holloway’s Rare Disease Day, raising awareness about how rare diseases impact people’s lives and highlighting the need for more research. On the social side, the Royal Holloway balls - Colours Ball, Summer Ball, Masquerade...were always a highlight: a chance to celebrate, dress up, and socialise.

In quieter moments, I loved the little cottage with the piano practice rooms, where I spent many hours, as well as the Founders Building and its beautiful library. What I’d want everyone to know is that Royal Holloway is a place where you can both push yourself academically and find a vibrant, supportive community - it’s somewhere you can truly grow, in every sense.