“An Appetite for Science?”
12 August 2010
Twenty-one Year 12 students spent a day at Imperial’s Hammersmith Campus in July finding out about the research undertaken at the Section of Investigative Medicine. The event, entitled “An appetite for science?”, offered sixth-formers the chance to learn about the physiology of appetite control and gain insight into experiments which use human volunteers. Participating student Sabrina Malena, from a north west London school, describes her day:
“The day was an unmissable opportunity for knowledge-hungry prospective students to get their teeth into science, giving them a taste of a life in investigative medicine, and inspiring them to re-evaluate their stance on ethical research issues. For many, it confirmed their cravings for a career in the field; for others, it provided a valuable and captivating experience to talk about in university interviews.
Six lectures were spread throughout the day, concerning everything from neuropeptides, which influence the activity of the brain in specific ways, to weight loss surgery, all led by current PhD students, post-docs and guest surgeons. Students were encouraged to participate in several hands-on activities, which included appetite testing; where students filled in questionnaires on appetite related questions before and after they ate, with that data then being analysed. The students also had the chance to be involved in planning an ethical Phase I Human study and discussing the flaws of Body Mass Index (BMI) indicators. The students made the most of the occasion, exchanging ideas and engaging fully in the presentations. Practical analysis of the calorific content of the buffet soon followed – no doubt all in the name of science!
The day was the perfect opportunity to consolidate and build on the students’ enthusiasm for science.
Having been spoiled with such an interesting array of concepts, they all walked away considering a career in the subject with renewed vigour. The event allowed for a generous glimpse into areas of physiological research, provoking much thought. Gracious thanks must be extended to The Physiological Society and Imperial’s Section of Investigative Medicine, both of whom made the outreach day as fulfilling as possible.”
Tags: Faculty of Medicine, Investigative science
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