People at Kew

We believe in the amazing power of plants and fungi. Our botanic gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our science and conservation work are world-class. But we couldn’t do it without our people. These are just some of the stories of those who work here.

Tony Kirkham by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Meet Tony Kirkham, Head of the Arboretum

He's been at Kew for 40 years. With an MBE, several other awards, and many highs and lows behind him, Tony has remained rooted to his one love – trees.

Meet Tony Kirkham by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Celebrating 40 years at Kew

Tony Kirkham's journey with Kew Gardens has been a long and eventful one. In this video he talks about his time with us. Can you guess what his favourite trees are? 

Elisa Biondi manages the Princess of Wales Conservatory by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Meet Elisa Biondi, Princess of Wales Conservatory Supervisor

She manages Kew's most complex glasshouse. The Princess of Wales Conservatory has 10 computer-controlled climatic zones and needs a lot of upkeep. Elisa and her team bring energy and passion to the job. 

Meet Elisa Biondi by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

 

Lee Davies by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

In love with fungi: Lee Davies

Our Fungarium is a fascinating place. We've got fungi samples from all over the world. Lee Davies tells us how easy it is to fall in love with fungi. 

Lee Davies on fungi by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Carol Murphy by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

On your guard: Carol Murphy from Kew's Constabulary

It is possibly one of the smallest and oldest police forces in the world. Originally set up to provide employment to men returning from the Crimean War, today staff at the Constabulary are ambassadors for our Gardens. They are the primary first responders on site. 

Steven Robinson by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Life through Steven Robinson's lens

Steven Robinson is the Conservation Supervisor at Wakehurst. His career spans three decades. He talks about his love for forests, conservation and animals (like sheep and cattle) who think of him as a parent. 

Meet Steven Robinson by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Thomas Freeth by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Rocking our world: Thomas Freeth

The Rock Garden is home to some of the toughest plants on the planet –alpines. Thomas is the Supervisor of the Rock Garden and the Davies Alpine House. He and his team provide, shall we say, rock solid support to our Gardens. 

Rock Garden: What is it? by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

 

Meet the pollinators: bees by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Bee kind

We love bees at Kew and Wakehurst. From science that helps study bees to volunteers who assist with conservation, you will find a lot of love for these creatures here. 

Look at this honey by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

"Bees are like teddybears"

 

Meet Mark Nesbitt by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

For the record: Mark Nesbitt

Our Economic Botany Collection is a rare and precious assembly of items we acquired from all over the world. Mark and his team find relevance and resonance for the objects. We're also telling the stories of our past in an open and collaborative way. 

Meet the Curator of our Economic Botany Collection by RBG KewRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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