Speakers

Speaker profile

Dr Junayd Miah is widely recognised as a UK space subject matter expert, having led the development and delivery of several critical space and ground segment capabilities for the UK Government. Much of his work has been path-finding research and development in collaboration with international partners across the globe that enabled the UK Government to expand its space capabilities and shape its strategic direction.

He served as Lead Science Adviser for UK Space Command. He provided critical advice for the development of an integrated space operations and Space Situational Awareness (SSA) architecture, resilient satellite communications and Earth Observation (EO) satellite missions for UK defence and civil sectors. The development of this integrated architecture will help enable the operation of future sovereign space assets in addition to collaborative operations with academic, commercial, and international partners.

Prior to this, he led the development of MINERVA – A >£120 million, game-changing space programme for a notional space architecture and associated EO and SSA satellite missions. This programme will set the foundation for all future space operations by UK Space Command. He also delivered the UK governments first owned and operated Ground Station and Mission Operations Centre, and demonstrated the first operation of a satellite by the UK government in over 17 years. The development, delivery and subsequent operations of this facility enabled many technical, policy and governance challenges to be addressed to advance UK Space Command capabilities. His experience in satellite manufacturing and operations was crucial for the delivery of the US-UK Coordinated Ionospheric Reconstruction Cubesat Experiment (CIRCE) space weather satellite mission and UK owned Prometheus-2 EO and SSA satellite mission.

Dr Junayd Miah completed his Bachelor’s degree at University of Southampton before subsequently completing his Master’s degree at Harvard University’s illustrious Center for Astrophysics, researching supernova remnants in distant galaxies. After completing his Master’s degree, he proceeded to complete his PhD at University of Durham, investigating star formation in merging galaxies. He is a Chartered Physicist and Fellow with the Institute of Physics – accolades received in recognition of his accomplishments in the space sector and his wider physics contributions.

Throughout his career, Dr Junayd Miah has demonstrated the ability to deliver towards national objectives, and influence partners and suppliers towards achieving UK Government long-term visions. He has a proven track record to research, innovate, and collaborate to deliver quality assured space solutions for the benefit of the UK. Outside of work, he frequently supports the growth and development of scientists through engagement and mentoring events in academia and community outreach programmes.