Forty-four Pembrokeshire College learners studying A-level Sciences and Applied Science enjoyed a visit to London for the Science Live: A-level conference.

There was a broad range of contemporary topics covered surrounding ethics, epigenetics of traits, artificial intelligence in science, the antibiotic resistance crisis facing society and the inheritance of body mass genes.

The students engaged with talks from: Professor Alice Roberts on ‘Tamed’, exploring the domestication of species; Professor Steve Jones questioning ‘Is Man just Another Mammal?’ using Darwin’s revolutionary ideas and modern genetic research; Professor Robert Winston speaking in-depth about the science of human reproduction and its manipulation; Dr Jenny Rohn on the ‘Revenge of the Microbes’ looking at the fascinating world of bacteria; and Dr Giles Yeo discussing research on ‘How the Brain Controls our Bodyweight.’

Biology lecturer Kate Bassett-Jones said:

“The students had an incredible time at the conference, gaining direct exposure to top-tier scientists left them feeling inspired and motivated about their future career paths.

Alongside delving into fascinating debates at the Science Live conference, the learners walked miles, taking in popular tourist sights which included spotting the Prime Minister and South Korean President on two occasions, dining in the festive setting of Covent Garden and watching ‘Wicked’ in the West End.

“Exploring London added to the excitement,” added Kate Bassett-Jones, “especially sighting the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in a police parade on their way to Downing Street and leaving a banquet at Buckingham Palace.”

The Science department looks forward to organising future visits to expand learners’ knowledge on current issues from experts within their field.