School pupils gain insight into scientific research and careers

19 high school pupils from across the Lothians attended Science Insights, a work experience programme from The MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine (IGMM) and The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh, in July.

Pupils were selected from more than 90 high-quality applications based on their passion for science and the University’s Widening Participation aims.

The pupils followed a varied programme of activities on three different University of Edinburgh campuses, gaining a real insight into research and work in biological sciences.

Activities included:

• Varied “Research taster sessions” with researchers in the lab
• Tours of scientific facilities
• Careers talks
• Understanding Animal Research workshop 
• Ethics in genetic research workshop and discussion
• Opportunities to meet current University of Edinburgh students
• Skills session to help with future university and job applications

Written feedback from pupils who attended Science Insights included:

“The researchers I met were interesting people. I found myself fascinated not just by their research, but them as people and their journey into science”

“The research Institutes were large, spacious, inspiring, insightful and a nice environment to work and learn in”

 “Before this week I’d never heard of bioinformatics and I think it could be a possible career choice”

“Best week of my holidays!”

“Phenomenal”

Dates and deadlines for the next work experience programme will be published on the Science Insights website early in 2016: www.scienceinsights.ed.ac.uk