On 25th November 2025, the Graduate Team hosted the Graduate Awards Evening at the UK ATC, bringing together the 2023 and 2024 cohorts to celebrate their achievements, while also welcoming the incoming 2025 cohort. The event was also attended by line managers and members of the senior leadership team.

The evening started off with welcome drinks followed by encouraging speeches from Professor Sir Ian Chapman and Professor Dave Newbold. Ilgin Okan and Ben Buky showcased their roles as a Graduate Liaison and co-PM for GradCon 25, highlighting the opportunities and responsibilities graduates can take on.

Multiple Rising Stars were observed at the Royal Observatory with Marcell Westsik, Ellie Smith, Vinooja Thurairethinam​ and Ilgin all being recognised for their outstanding contributions! Amna then shared reflections from her second year on the graduate scheme, speaking about growth, challenges, and milestones. Graduate mentors Dan Clarkson and Steve Watson were recognised for their reassuring support and guidance for their mentees working through the chartership pathway.

The Outreach Award was giving to Amna Waris for her involvement in public engagement activities and her role as WiSTEM co-lead. Gregor Soutar received the Graduate Impact Award for demonstrating all four STFC core values, particularly through his work on the flagship MOONS project​.

Topping off the evening, the Graduate Programme Award was presented to Amna for her active engagement with the scheme and support for a variety of initiatives. The night concluded with lively conversations over chilli and marvellous macarons.

On behalf of all the graduates at the UK ATC, a heartfelt thank you to the Graduate Team for organising such a memorable evening, and to everyone who joined us to celebrate these achievements.​