STEM for Britain 2024
Each year, the STEM for Britain Awards invites applications from early-career research scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians to present their outstanding work to members of parliament.
Taking place at the Houses of Parliament on Monday 4th March earlier this year, the event brought together young researchers to exhibit their research posters, engage in first-hand discussions with members of parliament, and to share and network with peers in the early-stage science community.
Since 2012, the IBMS has been a proud sponsor of the gold and silver awards for the biological and biomedical sciences categories.
This year, we were fortunate to see posters on several cutting-edge developments in the biological sciences field; from a study into the impact of PTSD versus intimate partner violence on brain health, to an investigation into the Earth’s most extreme environments that could replicate life on Mars many millions of years ago.
IBMS President Joanna Andrew addressed the audience:
“STEM for Britain is an excellent opportunity for you to showcase your research and raise awareness of the valuable work of biomedical and biological scientists in general, to politicians, and the public, we have certainly seen that today. I am also really happy to see so many brilliant women here presenting their vital contributions to our field, particularly during this week of International Women's Day."
We were especially impressed with the quality of research on display from the three winners of the biological and biomedical sciences category:
- Gold – Kyle Greenland (Imperial College London) for his poster, ‘Overcoming therapeutic resistance: Remodelling the prostate cancer microenvironment using liposomal nanomedicines’
- Silver – Karina de Almeida Lins (University of Nottingham) for her poster, ‘Improving survival in premature infants: Development of anti-biofilm feeding tubes’
- Bronze – Natalie Jenkins (University of Glasgow) for her poster, ‘Understanding long-term brain health consequences of intimate partner violence: Poorer cognitive performance in visuospatial tasks in mid-life’
Following the awards, we spoke with Kyle Greenland, winner of the gold award. Kyle said:
“I was extremely honoured to win first prize, particularly while competing against the brightest minds across the UK. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole event, especially meeting other young career researchers from all around the UK and discussing the impacts of our science with local MPs. I think STEM for Britain is a fantastic initiative and highlights the vital skill of being able to communicate the science we undertake with the wider public!”
On behalf of the IBMS, we wish all the award winners a warm congratulations and all the best for their careers ahead.