Insightful University Visits for Sixth Formers
Throughout the first half of term, our sixth form students visited various universities to hear interesting talks delivered by experienced researchers. The lectures offered inspiration and insight into scientific studies at university and higher education.
Lecture on MRI technology and functional neuroimaging- University of Worcester.
I had the privilege of travelling to the University of Worcester to attend a very informative lecture delivered by Dr R. Dewey on MRI technology and functional neuroimaging, with a focus on how brain function changes for people with hearing disorders or long-term noise exposure. Given how complicated the brain is, I am fascinated by how MRI can provide researchers with immediate visualisation of brain activity and see exactly which part of the brain suddenly fires up in reaction to external stimuli without being invasive or harmful to the body. The lecture allowed me to grasp the potential of MRI technology, and I was left thinking about how neuroimaging can potentially help scientists develop many new treatment methods for the different cognitive and health conditions and syndromes that trouble some people every day.
– Crystal, 6.1.
Racing Green- How Motorsport Science Can Save the World- University of Worcester.
This was my second time going to the University of Worcester for an IOP Lecture and I must say it was another memorable and eye-opening experience. As a big Formula One race fan, I had been super excited since this lecture was offered to us by the College, but I was also nervous… What if it was too complicated for me to understand? Nothing could’ve prepared me for how fun and easy this lecture was going to be. Dr K. Chapman made the lecture accessible for us (16-17 year olds) all the way to seniors! He gave us many real life examples of how motorsports had saved the world and is going to save the world, which has made me interested in reading his book, ‘Racing Green’. It was a 10/10 experience, and I do wish he holds another soon! Thank you for this opportunity, Concord.
– Roma, 6.1.
Engineering Masterclass: 3D Printing in Race Cars- University of Wolverhampton.
As a new tool for engineering and a new method of construction, 3D printing has been rising in popularity in all fields of science and manufacturing in recent years. Just a few days ago, I had the opportunity to learn more about this technology up close at Wolverhampton University. At the University, we were taken on a tour around its labs to see the machines with our own eyes. I was amazed to learn than, today, 3D printing can be applied to metals as well as polymers like plastic, and that it could create designs so complex, lightweight yet strong. From this perspective, 3D printing has brought a whole new world of possibilities to us.
On the tour, we also had a glimpse of the University’s fascinating racing culture. I find it mind-blowing how much science goes into that single vehicle alone. This journey opened a gate through which I could catch a glimpse of the potential of additive manufacturing and the wonders of the engineering world; now I believe more than ever that additive manufacturing could potentially be the solution to the many engineering problems we have today.
– Mohan, 6.1.
Visiting the Darby Building at the Telford campus was a unique opportunity to dive into the science behind motor racing. Interacting with university experts and witnessing their work was both mesmerising and inspiring. In particular, touching and examining these sophisticated machines and watching various 3D printers in action left me in awe of the limitless potential of engineering and technology.
– Zoie, 6.1.
