“Evolutionary biologists have long pondered the phenomenon of the changing colours of autumn leaves. It's possible that the red pigments are manufactured in the leaf as a side-effect of something else that's happening at this time.”

British academic, anatomist, archaeologist, TV presenter and author

Alice Roberts is a British academic, anatomist, archaeologist, television presenter and author. She was born in 1973 and is known for her work in science communication and public engagement, especially through her university role and her broadcasts. Since 2012, she has been professor of Public Engagement in Science at the University of Birmingham. She served as president of Humanists UK from January 2019 to May 2022 and remains a vice-president of the organisation.