Gemma Milne is a UK-based writer and researcher focused on narratives surrounding, activism in and political economy of science and technology. She is author of 'Smoke & Mirrors: How Hype Obscures the Future and How to See Past It'; is a researcher in Science and Technology Studies and Sociology at both Edinburgh University and Glasgow University focused on corporate futurism and the political economy of deep tech. Gemma writes for outlets such as The Guardian, WIRED, Forbes, the BBC and others; is co-host of the Radical Science podcast; and is the editor of The New Real Editions - a magazine focused on the intersection of AI and art. Gemma is a Fellow of the Creative Industries Research Centre Europe (CIRCE), an Assessor for Innovate UK, a Fellow of the Institute for the Future of Work, and an Innovation Jury Member for SXSW and has previously been a World Economic Forum Global Shaper, an Expert Advisor for the European Commission and a Scout for Backed VC.
Gemma is an experienced keynote speaker on all things science and technology - from biotechnology, health, agriculture, and energy, to quantum computing, AI, immersive technologies (VR, AR, metaverse), and space. She can explain the latest advances, uncover the links between science, technology, and society, discuss how businesses and organizations can make the most of the latest innovations, and dive deep into the ethics and responsibility surrounding the future of science and tech.
She is also a very keen moderator and MC - hosting panels, fireside chats, and journalistic interviews, and being that informed and warm link between sessions and across conference themes. She is comfortable in front of an auditorium or sitting in an intimate table setting. Gemma's speaking clients and appearances include Microsoft, Pfizer, HSBC, KPMG, the NHS, Google, Siemens, SXSW, TEDx, Financial Times, World Economic Forum, Wunderman Thompson, Cannes Lions, and many others.
I've worked in the conference/talks business for many years and Gemma is one of the strongest speakers I have encountered. She is confident, inspiring and extremely genuine, which helps the audience connect with and relate to her. In my last event at the Royal Geographical Society, I decided to open the conference with Gemma's talk as she is so inspiring that I knew she would draw the audience in and set the tone for the evening. I would highly recommend her for any speaking engagement.
I've worked in the conference/talks business for many years and Gemma is one of the strongest speakers I have encountered. She is confident, inspiring and extremely genuine, which helps the audience connect with and relate to her. In my last event at the Royal Geographical Society, I decided to open the conference with Gemma's talk as she is so inspiring that I knew she would draw the audience in and set the tone for the evening. I would highly recommend her for any speaking engagement.