Description

In the summer The Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics (Cesagen) ran the first ever internship scheme at Lancaster University aimed at undergraduates. Six students from departments ranging from Computing to History worked on various projects at the Centre, supervised by members of staff.

The scheme attracted a strong field of applicants and Emils Kilis, Laureene Reeves Ndagire, Charlotte Harwell, Michelle McShane, Jacob Halford and Christopher Bull each gained their places via an interview process.

The scheme aims to provide undergraduates with a rewarding work experience that will develop new transferable skills and knowledge, enhance their employability, and give those interested in postgraduate study an insight into academic research. The scheme was supported by funds from Framework Seven Programme projects in Cesagen, the core grant, and a contribution from the Friends Programme at Lancaster.

The scheme culminated in a seminar in September, at which each intern presented their research findings to the Cesagen staff. The research presented included work on Ethical Aspects of Implants in the Human Body, Biobanks, and Pan-European and International Awareness of Biometrics and Security Ethics. The interns also designed posters on their work that will be displayed at the international ESRC Genomics Network Conference in Cardiff in October 2009.

The students provided Cesagen with valuable feedback on their time with the scheme. Jacob Halford said 'I have found it very useful, for both the research methodology it has taught me and the insight it has provided into academic life.' Michelle McShane told us 'Now that I have had the opportunity to experience research, I definitely think I want to stay on and study for longer.'

'I think that the scheme has been an outstanding success,' said Richard Tutton, Assistant Director of Cesagen. 'We are very grateful for the support given to us by the Friends Programme at Lancaster. We hope to run the scheme again next summer, giving more students the opportunity to develop their research skills and to get involved in Cesagen's academic programme.'