About this day
For A-level and IB students
Join us for an exciting day of informative discussions, interactive sessions and inspirational stories at Biology in Action. From CRISPR technology to the impact of climate change, our experienced speakers will shine a light on cutting-edge research and current issues from the world of biology.
The day will also include a special session on examination success designed to provide students with the tools that they need to excel. With polls and quizzes throughout the day and plenty of opportunities to ask the scientists questions, this is an unmissable day, and we look forward to welcoming you and your students. Book now for Biology in Action
One more speaker for this event will be announced soon!
“Great variety of talks – Our students really enjoyed listening and gained a lot from the experience. Thank you!”
Biology Teacher, March 2023
Programme & speakers
Rainforest Lab Greg Foot, Science Presenter and Communicator
What is it like to climb to the top of the Amazon rainforest canopy? Join Greg Foot on the trip of a lifetime to discover the cutting-edge research being done at The Tambopata Research Centre. Also hear about the impact local gold mining and illegal logging is having on the rainforest and the goal to protect at least 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030.
About Greg Foot
Greg is a Science Journalist who has been writing, hosting & producing science content for 15+ years across TV, Radio, YouTube, Podcast, & Stage. He currently writes & hosts his popular BBC 4 show and podcast Sliced Bread and is a regular on BBC Morning live.
Pathogens, Plagues and Prehistory Pooja Swali, PhD student at The Francis Crick Institute & Science Communicator
This is not the first time our species has been plagued by diseases and pandemics. Evidence of infectious diseases is littered throughout historic literature, art and text. A small handful of these diseases even go as far as leaving visual evidence on bones, only to be uncovered by archaeologists thousands of years later.
About Pooja Swali
Pooja recently completed her PhD in Ancient Pathogen Genomics from the Francis Crick Institute investigating the evolution and spread of pathogens in history, where she identified the earliest evidence of plague in Britain.
Transforming Trauma James Piercy, Science Communicator
In the last 15 years the number of people dying from major trauma has halved. James explains how understanding blood clotting has driven the improvement and explains how current research is aiming to save even more lives.
About James Piercy
James Piercy works as engagement and involvement manager at Queen Mary University London and is a science communicator, trainer and consultant. He spends much of his time encouraging patient involvement in medical research and has spoken at school and festivals around the world.
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.