Wolfson SPaRC summer work experience 2024

These are A-level students interested in studying science at a degree level and considering a career in biomedical science or medicine. The work experience aims to give them a glimpse into the day-to-day laboratory work through practical demonstrations and seminars.

The students learned various laboratory practices, including the basic techniques of pipetting and tissue culture. These two techniques are fundamental to many biomedical research work. Students also learned to do PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and use the vibratome for tissue dissection and imaging. They learn from research volunteers from the centre, which include PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, principal investigators and technicians.

The week also includes seminars and presentations from Wolfson SPaRC researchers to showcase the diverse research topics within the centre. Students also visited King’s Gordon Museum of Pathology, learned about the zebrafish research facility, and explored the Guy’s campus.

Additionally, the centre organised a discussion session on career aspirations where students ask researchers questions about choosing a university degree, narrowing down project options, and the reality of being a researcher/research student.

The week ended with a reflection session, where students shared what they’ve learned and enjoyed from this experience.

Wolfson SPaRC is one of four departments in the School of Neuroscience. Research in the department spans three main themes: Chronic Pain & Migraine, Spinal Cord & Brain Repair, and Hearing Loss & Sensory Systems. Their fundamental mission is to understand the biological mechanisms behind these neurological and sensory disorders and harness this knowledge to develop new therapeutic strategies.