Engaging Science: Highlights from the New Forest Show

Together, the University of Southampton’s Faculty of Medicine and Wessex Medical Research hosted an engaging tent at this year’s New Forest Show, one of the UK’s largest agricultural events.

Professor Lucy Green , the Faculty Director of Engagement, highlighted the unique blend of activities: “Show-jumping, cattle, and medical science... it’s a fun public engagement with science event. The conversations at the show are about connecting with adults and children over the latest advances in health science from the University’s Faculty of Medicine and the important funds that Wessex Medical Research raise to support it.”

Wessex Medical Research, a charity established by the University of Southampton in 1977 to fund medical research at the then-new Medical School at the University, has made grants totalling in excess of £22 million for medical research over a period of more than 40 years. Their historic relationship with the New Forest Show continues to thrive, bringing cutting-edge medical science to the community. They were first granted a pitch in 2015 and have attended every year since, except for 2020 and 2021 when the show was cancelled due to COVID-19. Since 2019, they have also been joined annually by the University Roadshow.

Highlights from the tent include:

The Centre for Cancer Immunology

The Centre for Cancer Immunology showcased their groundbreaking research with interactive activities. Visitors could develop their own clinical trials, understand radiology through MRI fruit pairings, and learn about cancer development by identifying viruses and cancer cells among colourful plastic balls.

ALL_EARS@UoS and Hearing Loss

ALL_EARS@UoS is a patient and public involvement and engagement group that was conceived by Professor Tracey Newman and Dr Kate Hough. At the show they presented ‘ The World of Hearing and Cochlear Implants ,’ featuring play dough cochlear implant models, tuning fork demonstrations, and a ‘ How loud is too loud? ’ game to educate about safe listening habits.

Neil and Margaret Johnston from ALL_EARS@UoS shared their experience: “It was rewarding to share our stories with adults and children and help promote awareness of hearing loss, the dangers of loud noises and how cochlear implants can help with deafness. It is always fun to be with our group of like-minded souls, enthusiastically led by Dr. Kate Hough. Everyone is made welcome, included and listened to.”

A Breath of Fresh Air, led by the Respiratory Group

The Respiratory Group led a game demonstrating how particulate matter from air pollution travels through the body and causes disease, while also highlighting the body's defences, from snot to immune cells. It provided an opportunity to discuss air pollution sources and suggest small lifestyle changes to reduce exposure, promoting a longer, healthier, and happier life.

The Biophotonics Research Group

The Biophotonics Research Group from the Institute for Life Sciences showcased their work with RAMAN spectroscopy using a functional mini Mars Rover. This laser-based technology detects traces of life, and the EPSRC-funded ‘ InlightenUs ’ programme uses this technology to explore techniques for non-invasive, accurate diagnoses of skin cancer and bone disease.

ENACTUS Southampton

Enactus Southampton , a student-run social enterprise, is part of a global society creating social enterprises to tackle the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. One of their current projects supports the educational opportunities of children from socially deprived parts of Southampton. At the show, ENACTUS demonstrated hydroponics to young children and showcased their hydroponics workbook used in local schools.

Exploring Genomes

The Genomics stand sparked conversations about genomics, genetics, and their healthcare applications. Activities included " build your own sheep ," illustrating genetic inheritance, and a guessing game where visitors guessed the percentage of DNA humans share with various species.

Other attractions included a stem cell stand where children could ‘operate’ on bones, the Biomedical Imaging Unit with various powered microscopes, a nutritional health game showing the importance of healthy gut bacteria, and activities exploring dermatology and placental health.