About this day
For A-level, IB, BTEC Level 3 and T Level biology students
Join us in Manchester for Biology in Action where an inspiring day that brings biology to life awaits you and your KS5 students. Top scientists and professional from across the field of biology will share their passion and insight, shining a light on cutting-edge research and current scientific issues.
The day also includes a special session on exam success, giving students practical tools and tips to help them excel. With personal anecdotes, interactive polls and plenty of opportunities to put questions directly to the speakers, Biology in Action is an unmissable day. Book now to secure your places!
Host: Helen Pilcher (Science Writer and Presenter) Exam Session: Leah McClure (A-level Biology Teacher)
“Thought-Provoking and well-run. A great opportunity for pupils to hear from experts in the field!”
— Wellington School , Autumn 2025 —
Programme & speakers
Astrobiology – The Hunt for Alien Life Lewis Dartnell, University of Westminster
‘Astrobiology’ is the scientific search for life beyond our planet. Tour the planets and moons in our solar system which may offer the best hope, and further afield to alien worlds we’ve discovered around distant stars. Are we alone in the cosmos?
About Professor Lewis Dartnell
Lewis is an astrobiologist studying how microbial life might persist on the surface of Mars. He appears regularly on the BBC, National Geographic and Discovery channels.
Exploring the living ocean Helen Scales, Marine biologist and writer
Dive into the world of marine biology, discover species and ecosystems that will blow your mind and find out why the ocean matters to all of life on earth.
About Dr Helen Scales
Dr Helen Scales is a marine biologist, broadcaster and writer. She has a PhD in coral reef ecology and teaches at Cambridge University. She writes for the Guardian and National Geographic Magazine. Her latest books include What the Wild Sea Can Be and Oceanopedia.
Genetics and human evolution Matthew Cobb, University of Manchester
The study of human evolution used to be all about bones, but in the last decade our understanding of our recent history has been transformed by ancient DNA techniques. This talk describes some of the astonishing discoveries that have been made, shows how it changes our view of what it is to be human, and looks to the future discoveries that will be made.
About Professor Matthew Cobb
Professor Matthew Cobb has recently retired from the University of Manchester, where he was Professor of Zoology. He has written a number of books and articles on the history of biology, focusing on 20th century molecular biology and neuroscience.
How genomics is transforming healthcare Holly Ellis, Principal Clinical Scientist in Genetics, NHS
Genomic technologies are revolutionising our healthcare system. We can now use genomic information to determine what dose of drug would work best for an individual, to diagnose rare conditions and ultimately to save lives! We are moving towards personalised medicine and this field is only going to expand further.
About Holly Ellis
Holly is a Principal Clinical Scientist in Genetics in the NHS. She is an Oxford graduate, TEDx speaker and science communicator and is known as “The Scouse Scientist” on social media. She hosts the Scouse Scientist Podcast and challenges the stereotypes associated with careers in STEM.
Is it worth it? Helen Pilcher, Author and Science Communicator
There are only two northern white rhinos left. Saving them will involve some cutting-edge biology, but it’s going to be challenging and very expensive. So, is it worth it? Which species would you choose to save, and which would you let go? Join Helen as she discusses the dilemmas posed by modern day conservation.
About Dr Helen Pilcher
Dr Helen Pilcher is a tea-drinking, biscuit-nibbling science and comedy writer. Her books include Bring Back the King: the Science of De-extinction and Life Changing: How Humans are Altering Life on Earth and This Book May Cause Side Effects.