Kaya Burgess

Kaya Burgess: A Journalistic Career Spanning Science, Faith, and Society

Kaya Burgess has established himself as a versatile journalist at The Times of London, blending rigorous science reporting with nuanced coverage of religious affairs. Over 15+ years, his work has illuminated intersections between technology, culture, and belief systems while driving impactful campaigns like Cities Fit for Cycling.

Career Trajectory: From Local Reporting to National Influence

• 2008–2012: Early career focused on urban infrastructure and transportation policy
• 2013–2018: Transitioned to science journalism with emphasis on public health innovations
• 2019–present: Dual role as Science Reporter & Religious Affairs Correspondent

Defining Works

Catholics Outnumber Anglicans Among Gen Z Churchgoers

This 2024 analysis of British Census data revealed shifting religious demographics, showing young Catholics now dominate church attendance. Burgess combined statistical modeling with interviews from 50+ parishes to contextualize the trend within broader societal changes. The piece sparked national debates about secularization and immigrant communities' religious retention rates.

Robotic "Third Thumb" Enhances Human Capability

Burgess' 2025 coverage of University of Cambridge prosthetics research demonstrated his ability to translate complex biomechanical concepts into accessible narratives. The article detailed how pressure-sensitive toe controls enable seamless integration of robotic appendages, featuring first-person trials and ethicist commentary.

Beat Analysis & Pitching Guidance

Focus: Science-Religion Intersections

Burgess frequently explores how technological advancements challenge or complement religious traditions. His 2025 series on artificial womb ethics (Motherhood vs The Machine) exemplifies this, analyzing theological responses to reproductive tech. Pitches should highlight interdisciplinary angles, such as AI ethicists collaborating with faith leaders.

Avoid: Isolated Technical Reporting

While Burgess covers laboratory breakthroughs, he consistently ties them to human impact. A study on mRNA vaccine stability would need contextualization about global health equity or religious vaccine hesitancy to warrant coverage.

Awards & Recognition

"Burgess' cycling campaign redefined how British media approaches infrastructure reporting." – 2013 XCity Award Committee

• 2024 Press Awards Shortlist: Specialist Journalist of the Year (coverage of COVID-19 vaccine rollout interfaith partnerships)
• 2025 Science Communicator Award: For accessible reporting on quantum computing implications for religious cosmology models

Pitching Recommendations

• Lead with data visualization opportunities: Burgess frequently uses interactive maps/charts to explain demographic shifts
• Highlight unusual interfaith collaborations: His Nisa Nashim coverage showcased Jewish-Muslim women's initiatives