The ASTP is designed to give A-level biology students a chance to experience what a career as a biologist entails, from bespoke workshops with experts in the sector, to networking opportunities with scientists and the chance to explore life at a world-renowned research university. This programme is for students in state (non-fee paying) schools, ages 16+ who are currently pursuing A-level/IB/Higher level (or equivalent) qualifications in biology, maths and either chemistry, physics or further maths, and who are interested in higher education or a career in science. For one week, students will:
- spend afternoons in a lab each day, learning and practising research techniques
- attend four bespoke, interactive workshops with experts
- research a scientific topic or technique and create and deliver a presentation to peers and researchers
- meet and network with PhD students and other scientists to talk to them about their jobs and get advice about careers and educational opportunities
- explore Cambridge University, with the opportunity to ask questions and get advice from staff and students
Collaborators include:
- St Catharine’s College (programme lead)
- Pembroke College
- the Sainsbury Laboratory
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research
- MRC-Mitochondrial Biology Unit
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science
- Department of Pharmacology, Department of Biochemistry
- MRC Toxicology Unit
Eligibility
There are some criteria that applicants must meet if they plan to apply for the programme. Applicants must:
- attend a state/non-fee paying school or college
- be aged 16+
- be pursuing A-level/IB/Higher/Advanced Higher Biology, Maths & either Chemistry, Physics or Further Maths
- have achieved a 7 or above in GCSE maths and two GCSE sciences OR a B or above in National 5 maths and two National 5 sciences
First priority on this programme will therefore be given to students according to the following criteria:
- Are in care or care-experienced
- Are eligible for free school meals or pupil premium
- Belong to an underrepresented ethnic group
- Black African or Black Caribbean
- Pakistani or Bangladeshi
- Roma, Gypsy or Traveller
- Have experienced disruption in their education
- Are the first in their family/close network to go to university
- Are resident in areas with relatively low participation in higher education (using POLAR4) or in areas with less advantaged socio-economic characteristics (using IMD)
Responses