Watch Support Search What's on Education Christmas Lectures Our history About Blog About → Organisation → Team → Masterclasses → Samantha Durbin → Samantha Durbin Clothworkers’ Associate in Mathematics Samantha Durbin Role Sam looks after the Secondary Mathematics Masterclass network, including supporting existing Masterclass groups, expanding the network across the UK and working with new masterclass speakers. She visits Masterclass groups around the country as well as developing and delivering her own classes. About Samantha has been at the Ri since June 2012. Before joining the Ri, she was a STEM Clubs Advisor at the British Science Association, working with schools across London and the South East, and worked for the Institute of Physics in the South West, developing activities and supporting their public events. Sam was a mathematics tutor for many years at both secondary school and university level. She obtained a Master of Mathematics from the University of Bath in 2010 and an MSc in Science Communication from the University of the West of England in 2012. Scientific inspiration I never had a particular scientific inspiration growing up; I’ve just always enjoyed maths and science. These days, most of our masterclass speakers inspire me with the range of things they do with their students and their enthusiasm for their topic. It is always a pleasure to see them deliver a class! Favourite number/demo My favourite science demo is the flame tornado – both for the pretty fire and the lovely demonstration of fluid dynamics. If I had to choose a favourite number it would either be Phi (the golden ratio) or 42, but mathematics isn’t really about numbers. Best thing about the Ri The best thing about the Ri is the range of things we do to help inspire young people in different areas of maths, science and engineering. Related content Masterclasses Find out more About Masterclasses Find out more Our networks Find out more Get involved in Masterclasses Find out more Learn Masterclasses L'Oréal Young Scientist Centre Events for the whole family Science shows Interactive games Christmas Lectures Visit News What's On Food & Drink The Faraday Museum Heritage tours Find us Support Donate to the Ri Join the Ri Renew your Membership Corporate Partnerships 14-10 Club Events Jobs Keep in touch Keep up to date with regular emails from the Ri © Royal Institution 2013 Facebook Twitter Youtube Venue Hire Press T&Cs Privacy Policy Accessibility Contact Us