Defra Careers in Science talk

On 20^th June, Dr Robert Bradburne, Head of Science in the Sustainable Land Management and Livestock Farming team at Defra, visited the department.  He gave a talk and led a discussion with graduate students about working as a scientist in government, and about the role of science in policy making.

This visit followed a twelve-week placement by PhD student Robin Thompson (from the Theoretical and Computational Epidemiology group) at Defra, working as part of the UK-China Sustainable Agriculture Innovation Network (SAIN) team.  Robin spent the first six weeks of the placement writing six papers that were tabled at the recent SAIN Governing Board meeting in Beijing, covering a range of issues including future challenges to sustainable agriculture in the UK and the role of agriculture in social and economic development.  The papers were used as a basis for discussion about ongoing UK-China collaboration in sustainable agriculture.  Robin spent the second six weeks of the placement putting the decisions made at the Beijing meeting into practice, and learning more about the interface between science and policy by, for example, spending a day shadowing Chief Scientific Advisor at Defra, Ian Boyd.

The talk on 20^th June was an excellent introduction to working at a scientist in government, and was inspirational for graduate students interested in such a career.  Robin’s twelve-week placement was undertaken as part of the BBSRC Professional Internships for PhD Students (PIPS) scheme.

Talking to students

Labmash a smash hit

Plant Sciences played host to 28 secondary school students who live in care, as part of the University’s "Realise" project that encourages students to stay in 16+ education. Students took part in a shortened practical adapted from our first year undergraduate "Physiology of Organisms" course.

"Labmash; an introduction to enzyme induction" allowed students hands-on experience of extracting and assaying for nitrate reductase. It was great fun for staff and students alike.

Feedback comments included: "It's like CSI Miami!" "ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT! I loved it - I'm considering studying Biology for uni" and "Very interactive, friendly and well supported".

Thanks go to Barbara Landamore, teaching staff and volunteer post-grads.

Plant Sciences raises £444 for MacMillan Cancer Support

MacMillan Cancer Support – Fundraiser 2009 – Crafts & Coffee morning

This year an event was held on Friday 22nd May which not only satisfied the stomach, (yes, cakes again!!), but it enabled us to appreciate the talents of some of our fellow workers, who display their wares (individually made cards, jewellery, pictures etc.)

Thanks to all who supported the Coffee and Craft morning which raised £444 for MacMillan Cancer Support. Particular thanks should go to the cake/preserve makers for their carborific delights - and Sue Green and Barbara Landamore for spending hours of their free time making cards, and donating ALL the proceeds of their sales to the fund.

I'm sure everyone that went to the Teaching Lab. were impressed by the fantastic artwork/craftwork produced, not only by Sue and Barbara, but also the ladies from Physiology and Anatomy. All of the stands looked so inviting and they all complemented each other so well.