Sixth Form Introduced To The World Of Genetics
The impact of DNA and genetics on everything from rugby to reproduction was brought to life for more than 700 Sixth Form students.
Six leading scientists took to the stage at Wrexham Glyndwr University’s William Aston Hall for a biennial conference run by the Wales Gene Park.
The event was designed to enrich Sixth Form students’ knowledge of genetics and its impact on everyday life.
Speakers from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and Oxford, Manchester Metropolitan, Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle Universities delivered talks.
Topics included The ABC of DNA, Genetics in Rugby, Malaria and Gene delivery for applications in neuroscience. There was also a lecture on the subject of ‘Why is a 3-parent baby so controversial?’
Angela Burgess, education and engagement project manager for Wales Gene Park, said: “Our aim is to spread the word about genetics to the population of Wales and this was our second event of the week, after we hosted one for the general public.
“Genetics is becoming more and more important and there is an increasing acknowledgement of its effects on all areas of health care.
“There are many issues and opportunities around genetics and the aim of the event was to educate young people about these.”
Pupils from 20 schools in Cheshire and North Wales attended including: Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin; Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen; Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan, Conwy; Ysgol Friars, Bangor; Ysgol Glan Clwyd, St Asaph; Ysgol Syr Hugh Owen, Caernarfon; Yshol Syr Thomas Jones, Anglesey; Ysgol Tryfan, Bangor;
The Wales Gene Park is funded by Welsh Government through Health and Care Research Wales.
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