Inside the Lab: Exploring the World of Biomedical Science at Swansea Science Festival
Dr. Claire Price and team bring biomedical science to life for families in Swansea
On 26th and 27th October 2024, The Swansea Science Festival returned to the National Waterfront Museum with a range of free exhibitions showcasing some of the cutting-edge research being done at Swansea University.
The festival, which attracted an impressive 2,120 visitors on Saturday and 2,784 on Sunday, offered a platform to present engaging, hands-on activities to audiences of all ages.
Among the highlights was the "Inside the Lab" activity, led by Dr. Claire Price (Swansea University) and her team, shining a light on biomedical science and its essential role in healthcare.
Showcasing Biomedical Science
Dr. Price and her team of enthusiastic volunteers, including Dr. Llinos Harris (Swansea University), Dr. Victoria Bradley (Cardiff Metropolitan University), Menna Davies (Hywel Dda UHB), and Swansea University MSc students Kunuz Fatimah, Zuzanna Kowalska, and Suja Vijayalekshmi, ran a series of interactive, hands-on activities to captivate and educate attendees.
Visitors viewed 3D-printed models of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, sparking conversations about the role of blood in the body. They also tested the pH of different urine samples, learning how simple diagnostic tests can provide insights into health, and completed human body puzzles, making science both fun and accessible.
A Memorable Day
The Swansea Science Festival provided a wonderful opportunity for families, students, and the general public to connect with the world of biomedical science in an enjoyable way. Some feedback from attendees included:
“Really interesting. The boys loved it! Thank you!”
“Very interactive.”
“Challenging, but fun.”
The team also reflected on the day, expressing how rewarding it was to see the curiosity sparked by their activities.
Bringing Biomedical Science to the Community
Dr. Claire Price expressed the importance of participating in such events to inspire the next generation of biomedical scientists, increasing public awareness of the profession and its vital role in healthcare.
Publicising the Event
The event was promoted through the Swansea Science Festival’s official channels, attracting visitors from across the region and providing a platform for the IBMS to demonstrate its commitment to outreach and education.
Looking Ahead
The IBMS celebrates the success of events like "Inside the Lab," which not only highlight the vital work of biomedical scientists but also inspire the next generation of professionals. Thank you to all the volunteers who made this event a success!