Cambridge Science Centre has welcomed “three exceptional individuals” to its board of trustees – Douglass Cuff, Jason Mellad, and Bruno Cotta.

Their deep and diverse skills sets reinforce the organisation’s commitment to advancing STEM engagement and inspire innovation among young people.

They will play a pivotal role in supporting CSC as it expands its reach through its PopUpScience Centres in Cambridge and the Fenlands and explores potential venues for a permanent Science Centre.

Douglass Cuff, Senior Vice-President of UK Real Estate at IQHQ, Inc., brings more than two decades of invaluable experience in the life science real estate sector.

With his deep understanding of the Cambridge commercial development landscape, Douglass’ expertise will be invaluable as the team explore the possibilities for a permanent new centre.

Jason Mellad, CEO and co-founder of Cambridge-based Start Codon is a visionary scientist entrepreneur focused on translating innovative technologies into tangible patient benefits. 

As a venture builder, Jason has identified disruptive healthcare founders and innovations globally, providing seed funding and leveraging the Cambridge cluster’s unique resources to drive their start-ups’ success.

Bruno Cotta has over 30 years of leadership and management experience across public, private, and third-sector organisations. He has been pivotal in shaping world-class university strategic plans, international partnerships and innovation ecosystems.

He founded the Enterprise Lab at Imperial College London, directed the Entrepreneurship Centre at the Business School in Cambridge, and is passionate about supporting the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.

Board chair Dr David Cleevely was thrilled with the calibre of the ‘captures.’

He said: “We warmly welcome Douglass, Jason, and Bruno to our board. Their exceptional skills, strategic thinking, and wealth of expertise perfectly align with our ambitious strategy to break down barriers in STEM education.

“We firmly believe that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are exciting and inclusive, and these trustees embody that vision.

“The presence of this trio will significantly impact our ongoing efforts to enhance our services to the public, schools and local communities. With their outstanding expertise, I am confident that our Board of Trustees will steer us towards continuous improvement and growth.”