To celebrate Biology Week 2024, which highlights the incredible impact of biological sciences on our world, we are showcasing the remarkable work of our team and their contributions to the field.
Throughout the week, we’ll hear from a number of leading figures, starting with our Curriculum Delivery Manager, Rebecca Hill, who shares insights from her diverse career in research, teaching and vocational training.
As Biology Week 2024 approaches, I am reminded of how my varied career in research, teaching and vocational training has given me the opportunity to try to inspire the next future generation of biologists. From working in foodborne pathogen research at The Quadram Institute (previously known as the Institute of Food Research) to educating young people, I’ve seen how the work we do in biology can have a profound impact on society.
My journey began as a PhD research scientist, where I studied the genetics of Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterium responsible for foodborne illness. My research focused on how gene regulation enabled this anaerobic organism to survive in aerobic conditions—a key factor in its persistence in food supplies. While research was rewarding, I soon realised I wanted to share my passion for science with others, so I became a qualified secondary school teacher, teaching biology, chemistry and physics. Helping students grasp the complexities of biology and develop a love for the subject was incredibly fulfilling.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered at a testing facility, using my experience with PCR techniques to process nasal swabs for analysis. This experience underlined the real-world importance of biology and reinforced my desire to help equip future scientists with the skills they need. After the pandemic, I moved into vocational education, becoming a curriculum delivery manager for Cogent Skills.
Now, I work with apprentices in science and technology companies across the UK, helping them develop both the academic knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in cutting-edge industries.
One of the highlights of my current role is seeing how vocational training helps young people begin their careers in science, gaining hands-on experience alongside their studies. Apprenticeships are an excellent pathway for developing the next generation of biologists, offering real-world learning that bridges the gap between theory and practice.
Biology Week is a time to celebrate the significance of biology and its role in addressing global challenges. It’s also an opportunity to inspire people to pursue careers in this vital field. Through my own experiences, I’ve seen how mentorship, education, and practical training can shape a person’s development and help them achieve success in the biological sciences. As we look to the future, let’s continue to promote biology as a dynamic and rewarding career choice. By investing in the development of future scientists, we ensure that biology remains at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation.
