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Posted on October 15th 2024
Year 7 STEM Bursary Students Meet Leading Bioscientists
Biology Week 2024 was a vibrant celebration of life sciences, bringing together scientists, students and enthusiasts alike.
Among the key highlights was Year 7 STEM bursary pupils at Harris Boys' Academy, East Dulwich actively participating in a live virtual event on careers in bioscience, hosted in collaboration with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and featuring a panel of esteemed scientists from ZSL London Zoo.
Unveiling the pathways to careers in bioscience
The event provided Year 7 STEM bursary pupils with a valuable opportunity to explore the diverse and rewarding career pathways within the conservation science as ZSL scientists, renowned for their groundbreaking work in conservation and wildlife research, shared their personal stories of entering the field, the challenges they faced, and the moments that fuelled their passion for protecting endangered species and ecosystems.
From fieldwork in remote rainforests to cutting-edge research in urban environments, the speakers highlighted the wide range of roles that bioscience careers offer. For those passionate about the natural world, conservation biology, zoology and ecology emerged as particularly exciting fields, combining scientific research with real-world impact.
Expert insights from ZSL London Zoo scientists
The event featured several experts from ZSL London Zoo, all of whom have dedicated their careers to the conservation of wildlife and habitats around the world. Their presentations were not only informative but deeply inspiring, as they shared anecdotes from the field and discussed the critical role of science in addressing some of the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges.
The key speaker was Sandeep Mahara, a conservation biologist specialising in endangered species. He discussed his work in reintroducing captive-bred animals into the wild. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between scientists, governments, and local communities to ensure the long-term success of conservation efforts.
This left a lasting impression on Year 7 STEM bursary pupil Sashwannth. "I liked meeting a person working in conservation in Nepal," he said. "It was exciting because he gave lots of information about what he does day to day and his pathway to where is now is."
Inspiring the next generation of bioscientists
A recurring theme throughout the event was the sense of purpose that drives those in the field of conservation. The presenter encouraged the Year 7 STEM bursary pupils at HBAED to pursue their curiosity, remain resilient in the face of obstacles, and recognise the profound impact that careers in bioscience can have on the future of the planet.
The virtual format allowed for the audience to interact with the speakers and ask questions. "I think the entire experience was wholesome and interesting," said Muhammad, one of our Year 7 STEM bursary pupils. "It boosted my confidence and pulled me into the amazing world of Zoology. I was amazed because it was my first time meeting zoologists, and at home I started to research. I would love to have another experience like this again."
Looking ahead
Biology Week 2024’s focus on careers in bioscience, with the participation of ZSL London Zoo’s leading scientists, shone a spotlight on the vital role that bioscience professionals play in tackling global environmental challenges. As the demand for solutions to biodiversity loss and climate change grows, careers in conservation, zoology, and ecology are more important than ever.
For the Year 7 STEM bursary pupils at Harris Boys' Academy East Dulwich, the event offered a clear message: bioscience is not only a field of discovery but a path to protecting the Earth’s wildlife and ecosystems for future generations. Biology Week 2024 may be over, but the enthusiasm it sparked for bioscience careers will continue to inspire budding scientists for years to come.
Mr Russell
