Nuffield research students showcase their CCMRC project at celebration event in Cardiff

Nuffield research students were invited to celebrate their work placement achievements at an event in Cardiff in early October. The Nuffield scheme provides an opportunity for students to gain experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research institutions or industry over the summer holidays. The event, which was hosted by the regional coordinator Tecniquest, offered students the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and learning outcomes whilst networking with other students, supervisors and guests from the STEM sector. The evening was closed by a certificate presentation from Nobel Prize Winner, Professor Sir Martin Evans.

CCMRC is a long-standing placement provider for the Nuffield scheme, which is open to Year 12 students and organised and funded by the Nuffield Foundation. This year, CCMRC hosted two students: Evie Brown from St Cyres School in Penarth and Jack Davies from Treorchy Comprehensive School in Rhondda Cynon Taff. Evie, who was supervised by Dr Liam Morgan, Research Associate, worked on a project entitled, “The Regulation of DKK-1 Expression in Prostate Cancer Cells”; while Jack, under the supervision of Dr Jun Cai, Research Fellow and Bruno Bastos, PhD student, performed an, “Analysis of Cathepsin K Expression in Breast Cancer Cells.” Dr Morgan and Bruno Bastos attended the celebration event to support Evie and Jack, who are both hoping to pursue a career in science.

CCMRC is committed to furthering the interest of young adults in science and will continue to participate in this scheme under the coordination of Dr Tracey Martin. If you are interested in joining CCMRC for a summer placement in the future, your school can help you apply through the Nuffield scholarship scheme. Alternatively, please contact Dr Tracey Martin for further advice and guidance.