Raising awareness for drug discovery through the Welsh language

Cardiff University scientists raised public awareness of medicines discovery through the medium of Welsh, attending an annual Welsh-language festival to share their research.

Researchers from the Medicines Discovery Institute at Cardiff University performed at Tafwyl Festival in June, engaging the public with the processes underlying the creation of new medicines.

The open air festival, which celebrates the Welsh language, culture, music and art, took place in the walls of Cardiff Castle, drawing in nearly 40,000 people.

Professor Simon Ward, Director of Cardiff University’s Medicines Discovery Institute, said: “Cardiff University set up a tent at the festival, acting as a hub of information and hands-on activities, based around our cutting-edge research and courses.

“As an Institute, we aim to translate fundamental discoveries in disease processes and the identification of molecular targets into new drugs, and we are passionate engaging the public with our research.

“Our marble run, molymod game and drug testing activity helped us to demonstrate some of the principle factors that are involved in developing novel therapies.

“Community outreach gives us the opportunity to share our research with the public and inform people about the world-leading research happening in Wales.

“It was an incredible privilege to not only raise public awareness of drug discovery, but also do so through the medium of Welsh.

“We look forward to taking part in the Eisteddfod in Cardiff Bay during August, to showcase our work further, where I will be giving a talk on Designing innovative medicines of the future as part of the festival.”