A Royal Society funded project, in academic partnership with Dr Hearn (King's College London), provides students with high level research opportunities using university-standard technical equipment

A STEM project that was submitted to the Royal Society by Dr Emmanuel, Teacher of Biology and STEM Co-ordinator, was recently approved and provides TGS students with £3,000 of university-standard technical equipment.

Dr Emmanuel explains more about the opportunity it provides: “ This exciting project will help students develop skills in applying molecular techniques such as DNA profiling, electrophoresis and Polymerase Chain Reactions to real life situations involving genomics, bioinformatics, diagnostics, medicine, agriculture, nutrition science and forensics. They will also see how these techniques are being used by scientists during the current pandemic in the fight against COVID.

The Royal Society assessors were particularly impressed by the way the project develops other transferable skills such as problem-solving, independent thinking, critical analysis, teamwork, creativity, communication and digital literacy”.

The project sets up an academic partnership with Dr Russell Hearn from King's College London who will be a mentor to students, helping with methodology as well as giving career talks to give our students an insight into STEM related careers.

Meet Dr Emmanuel, Teacher of Biology and STEM Co-ordinator

"I am a confident graduate with a keen interest in teaching and research particularly in creating platforms that showcase the interlinks between subjects and their application in real life scenarios; I love being a channel of encouragement to my students. I hold a PhD in Soil Biology, two master’s degrees in Botany, and Genetics, a bachelor’s degree in Botany and a PGCE qualification. My early career was teaching and research at university level where I worked for over 15 years. I make considerable effort to balance my family life with my interests because I want my children as well as my students to be successful and achieve their life-long dreams in the end.

I believe that the IB Diploma equips young scientists with the research skills they need at university and beyond, providing them with the chance to solve real-world problems in an international context. This research programme will provide more opportunities for students to develop these skills.

The IB Diploma really prepares students for the independent learning they will experience at university. This is the result of through inquiry-based learning while working alongside teachers to develop selfless approach to their study. The IB Extended Essay offers scientists the opportunity to develop analytical skills necessary for writing essays and to work alongside experience supervisors who provide support all way".