Dr Liu has been praised for her science communication and research, which combines origami techniques with 3D printing in robotic design. This video illustrates Dr Liu's work.   

The British Science Association (BSA) award recognises a small group of researchers for their innovative research – especially for making their work accessible to a non-specialist audience. Past Award Lectures have been presented by such acclaimed scientists as Professor Brian Cox, Professor Richard Wiseman and Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock. 

Meanwhile the Josh Award for Science and Showmanship was given to Dr Liu as an outstanding early-career science communicator.  The BIG skills-sharing network recognises individuals involved in the communication of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.