On Monday 9 December, a group of 10 enthusiastic biologists visited the University of Surrey to participate in 'The Topic of Cancer' workshop, joining pupils from Tormead and Guildford High School.
The pupils were given a quick introduction to cancer and how it works and the roles of Proto-oncogenes and Oncogenes. Pupils then rotated through a series of three workstations.
Station One
This station explored the process of Western blotting, a technique used to determine the protein content in cancer cells. The pupils then had the opportunity to load a gel using the micropippetting technique and transfer the very fiddly western blotting gel.
Station Two
Here, pupils identified cancer cells by using high-powered microscopes to identify the difference in appearance of the cells. This began with an introduction to how the tissues are prepared for laboratory observation and the type of stains used to identify cancerous cells. Pupils then performed pathology tasks, analysing slides to distinguish tissue types. They also studied two slides of prostate cancer, identifying the areas affected by the disease.
Station Three
This station featured a pipetting challenge, allowing pupils to practise their micropippetting skills at speed into specific micro wells from different Eppendorf tubes. This highlighted the difficulties of cancer research when exposing the cancer cells to the different immuno chemicals.
At the beginning of each session, researchers shared insights into their career paths, discussing their educational journeys, degrees, and research experiences. This provided pupils with valuable perspectives on different routes into biological research. Additionally, the activities showcased key techniques used worldwide in advanced biological studies.
At the end of the session there was a round-up and prizes awarded for the best Pathologist, pipetter and western blotter. Our very own Thomas (Year 12) was declared the best western blotter.
Mrs Abigail Higgins, Head of Biology
