Microscopy
Programme overview
We are excited to offer an opportunity for Year 12 students to gain hands-on experience within our Microscopy Department. This work experience placement aims to provide insight into the advanced imaging techniques and research conducted in microscopy, giving students a real feel for what it’s like to work in this dynamic and highly specialised field.
What you will do
During the placement, students will have the chance to:
- Observe and assist in setting up and maintaining advanced light microscopes used for cutting-edge imaging.
- Learn about key imaging techniques, such as confocal microscopy, light-sheet microscopy, and super-resolution (STED) imaging.
- Participate in demonstrations of imaging processes, including how microscopes are used to capture and analyze detailed cellular images.
- Gain insight into image analysis, learning how researchers manage and interpret complex imaging data to draw scientific conclusions.
- Engage with experienced professionals to understand the importance of experimental design and quality control in microscopy-based research.
About the Microscopy team
Our Microscopy Core Facility is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging platforms that support cancer and biomedical research. Techniques include confocal microscopy, 2-photon/intra-vital microscopy, spinning disc microscopy, light-sheet microscopy, and super-resolution imaging (STED). The department also provides advanced image analysis platforms to support researchers in extracting meaningful data from complex images.
This placement will give students the opportunity to explore how advanced microscopy techniques contribute to scientific discoveries, using some of the most sophisticated imaging tools available in cancer research today.
What to expect
This placement is designed to be an immersive and interactive experience, tailored for secondary school students with an interest in science, biology, or technology. Students will be encouraged to observe professional workflows, ask questions, and actively engage with mentors who are experts in microscopy. By the end of the programme, students will have gained a clearer understanding of how advanced imaging techniques are used to support groundbreaking biomedical research.
We look forward to inspiring the next generation of scientists!
Additional Information:
- Dress Code: Lab coat and safety equipment will be provided; wear comfortable closed-toe shoes.
- Supervision: Students will be supervised by Huw Naylor, working with other members of the Microscopy core staff.
We look forward to welcoming students and providing them with a valuable experience!