An Ely scientist is taking her research about antibacterial surfaces to Parliament.

Dr Felicity de Cogan, 31, is presenting her engineering research to a range of politicians and a panel of expert judges, as part of STEM for Britain on March 12, a competition that encourages science and maths research.

Felicity’s research about novel antibacterial surfaces will be judged against dozens of other scientists’ research in the only national competition of its kind.

Felicity was short listed from hundreds of applicants to appear in Parliament.

She said: “Hospital acquired infections have huge impact on our society and account for over 700 deaths a year.

“With the global issue of antimicrobial resistance, this will only increase. We have developed a novel surface which can kill bacteria, preventing the spread of infection and potentially saving lives across the NHS.

“This is an important innovation to bring to the attention of Parliament as it shows an alternative way for the NHS to tackle this increasing global threat.”

Stephen Metcalfe MP, chairman of the parliamentary and scientific committee, said: “This competition gives MPs an opportunity to speak to a wide range of the country’s best young researchers.

“These early career engineers, mathematicians and scientists are the architects of our future and STEM for Britain is politicians’ best opportunity to meet them and understand their work.”