Meet the founder
Golden Mile Research & Consultancy is an independent environmental consultancy founded by Symiah Barnett, an environmental chemist with a PhD from Loughborough University specialising in microplastics, nanoplastics, and contaminants of emerging concern.
Symiah’s experience spans laboratory research, pharmaceutical quality systems, parliamentary policy, and community-based science engagement. She has worked with the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, the Royal Society of Chemistry, the University of Reading, and organisations across industry and academia.
Previous Projects

Black Hair & Chemistry
Client : University of Reading
Focus: public health, community identity, and chemical exposure considerations.
Hair-care practices are deeply linked with culture and identity, yet some popular treatments have associated health risks. This project brought together scientific expertise, community insights, and public engagement to explore this space in depth.
Outputs:
🎙 BBC Berkshire interview
📰 Daily Mail feature on public health angles
🏛 University of Reading news story

Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST)
Client: UK Parliament (POST)
Focus: Science-for-policy, agriculture, environment, food systems
POST provides independent, impartial scientific advice to MPs and Peers. I undertook a 3‑month secondment from my PhD as a Research Fellow at POST, contributing directly to parliamentary evidence on agriculture and sustainability.
Outputs:
📰Policy Brief
📰 Participated in a Parliament & Industry Trust breakfast, discussing regenerative agriculture with MPs, Lords, and senior food‑industry stakeholderss

High Street Heritage Action Zone
Client: Reading Borough Council
Focus: Local heritage, community history, content strategy
Commissioned by Reading Borough Council as part of Untold Ltd to explore the cultural and historical significance of Oxford Road, a key artery in Reading with rich community history and heritage value.
Outputs:
A docuseries showcased at private viewing