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Life sciences participation at Harvest Festival

In July, life sciences staff at Coventry University were invited to participate in a Science and Nature Trail at the Harvest Festival held at Jimmy’s Farm in Ipswich. Jimmy Doherty, an ex-Coventry University graduate, is well known from the BBC programme Jimmy’s Farm and through his partnership with Jamie Oliver on Channel 4.

Staff from the School of Life Sciences demonstrated their enthusiasm for science by showcasing different displays and reptile talks for audiences. IBMS member Emma Frith, a lecturer at Coventry University, shared some of the experiences on the day: “Children had the opportunity to make rockets, chromatography butterflies and lava lamps, all while learning the key scientific principles behind each.

“Resident animal experts were also on hand to showcase a collection of snakes, turtles, toads and spiders to an eager audience and discuss their historic role in anti-venom and fertility research. Not to leave the adults out, we also had information displays on ‘The Science of Beer’, focusing on the role of yeast, and a ‘Guess the Sugar Content’ game, leading to some interesting discussions about diabetes and diagnosis.

“In addition to making science fun, I really wanted to use this event to promote the field of biomedical science and in particular the role of a biomedical scientist. Even though over 70% of diagnoses are based on the pathology results provided by laboratory services, few people appreciate the workforce behind the sample testing and the varied roles undertaken.

“We had a fantastic reaction from the public, with many children eager to enter our science quiz, and parents equally happy to help their children in furthering their science education. It was fantastic to meet some fellow pathology colleagues at the event and see so many young people take an interest in science.”

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Upcoming Events

Pathology Horizons 2024

MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath
18-20 April, 2024

Diagnostics North East Conference 2024

The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
19 April, 2024

ECCMID 2024 - European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Fira Gran Via, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
27-30 April 2024

British Society for Microbial Technology Annual Microbiology Conference

UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, London
2 May 2024

EQA Reports: Interpreting Key Information & Troubleshooting Tips

ONLINE - Zoom
Thursday 16th May 2024

Participants’ Meeting: UK NEQAS Immunology, Immunochemistry & Allergy

Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield
24th May 2024

Access the latest issue of Pathology In Practice on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Pathology In Practice app from your device's App store

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