The sweet art of decorating: Bake-off stars delight University of Leicester staff with cake artistry

On Friday 2 August, staff at the University of Leicester were invited to Dr Josh Smalley’s Science Kitchen, alongside fellow bake-off star Dr Rahul Mandal and surprise guest, bake-off contestant, Keith Barron.  

With help from the Staff Health and Wellbeing Team, Josh and Rahul welcomed 15 lucky colleagues to a biscuit decorating masterclass, where they were taught top tips and tricks in decorating some freshly prepared sweet treats by the experts themselves, including how to pipe sunflowers and delicate lacework detail. 

After the workshop, other staff joined a networking reception. Guests were able to meet the bake-off trio and sample some of the cakes and pies baked and decorated earlier in the day by Josh and Rahul.  

Dr Josh Smalley, who was a 2023 Bake Off finalist, has developed the Science Kitchen as part of his new role as Science Communication and Engagement Champion at the University of Leicester.

Dr Josh Smalley, alumnus and postdoctoral researcher in the Leicester Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, said: “It was a huge privilege to host Bake Off legend Dr Rahul Mandal in the new Science Kitchen at the University as its big launch event.  

“This will be the first of many events, all centred on bringing together the worlds of Science and Baking, infusing culinary creations with an understanding of the molecular make-up of the bakes.  

“It brought such a huge smile to my face to see people enjoying themselves and giving such high praise for the event and the new Science Kitchen.  

“I think these type of events have the potential to be quite special, hosting like-minded people who share a passion for baking and research, to put on events combining the baking, the science, the research/career/experiences of the guest, along with great networking opportunities for the university staff and students (and maybe public going forwards), along with the opportunity to host workshops as well supporting staff and students health & wellbeing.” 

Speaking about the success of the event, Assistant Director of HR, Nic Junkin, said: “This event was the first in what we hope will be many joint events to support our holistic approach to staff health and wellbeing.  Staff had great time and agreed how mindful the event was!”