My summer research placement cemented my understanding of many techniques - ready for my third year lab project

“I found out about the SURE placement scheme through a lecture in my second year of biomedical science. The chance to carry out some original research in actual university research labs was very appealing. Therefore, I emailed one of the lecturers within the department whose work I found particularly interesting and luckily a project was available.

“During the placement I investigated the effect of different calcium channel inhibiting drugs on the activation of a signalling pathway. This pathway is triggered by ultrasound stimulation to increase wound healing. I particularly liked the clear clinical relevance of the work the lab carried out - refining the use of ultrasound as a therapy for healing wounds faster and healing chronic wounds.

In addition to the laboratory skills I learnt, I developed many transferable skills during the SURE project including poster presenting, time-management, communication and teamwork skills. All of these skills are critical for succeeding in any professional role.

Elena Brewer

MBiomedSci Biomedical Science

“I found that the project consolidated my understanding of many techniques taught in second year such as western blotting, cell culture, microscopy and fluorescent antibody staining. Carrying out these techniques first hand was not only really interesting but helped me understand the limitations of certain techniques often used in primary papers, essential for critical essay-writing in third year. Another advantage of this project is that it prepared me well for the third-year lab project. Having some experience in a lab has given me a lot more confidence going into third year and starting my lab project.

“In addition to the laboratory skills I learnt, I developed many transferable skills during the SURE project including poster presenting, time-management, communication and teamwork skills. All of these skills are critical for succeeding in any professional role. The SURE application process gave me experience writing in a style similar to a grant application and working with my supervisor gave me invaluable individual feedback on my writing. I am confident that this will aid me in any career path I pursue, not only scientific research as the writing style needed is relevant for job applications.

“Overall the SURE placement gave me realistic insight into life in a research lab, at the same time as boosting my C.V. and allowing me to conduct original research.”