Focusing in on Nucleic Acids Outreach Event
Talented young people attending the Generating Genius outreach event today took part in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) workshops to inspire their future studies in Higher Education.
The varied programme included a workshop on Gene-hunting led by Reuben Pengelly, Faculty of Medicine, who is part of the BBSRC Excellence with Impact FioNA project (Focusing in on Nucleic Acids). The Gene-hunting workshop introduced the foundations of genetics and genomics, highlighting the real-world applications. The goal was to make the students consider the potential impacts of the field, both positive and also negative, along with the challenges faced, both technologically and ethically.
Reuben said “ As genomics is entering the mainstream, it is essential that we encourage young people to engage with the field. This will help to continue the rapid expansion that it is currently enjoying .”
Workshop participants valued the insight into this field. One commented: “ It was good for my mind to be stretched in the Gene-hunting workshop – it’s amazing that scientists can do it but the implications are huge !’
Key facts
The FioNA project aims to capture and enhance the excellence and expertise Southampton has in nucleic acid research, as well as foster new collaborations across the University and within the wider community by focusing on key areas of policy, enterprise and outreach.
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