BU Research Blog

Dr Demetra Andreou and Prof Genoveva Esteban from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences recently welcomed Sixth Form students and science teachers from Thomas Hardye School (Dorchester) to a full-day workshop on the molecular ecology of freshwater shrimps. The academics offered a hands-on computational investigation of biodiversity, demonstrating how DNA analysis can reveal population structures, detect potential invasive species, and inform conservation strategies in freshwater ecosystems.

Science teacher Simon Lewis’s testimonial captured the impact of the day: Of all the activities we take part in through the school, this is one of my absolute favourites. The ownership the students feel over their results and the advanced level of analysis they achieve are difficult to replicate elsewhere, but this day ticks all the boxes.

The workshop increased students’ understanding of ecology and DNA while providing an inspiring introduction to university-level science, encouraging them to consider future pathways in research and higher education. Visitors also toured the campus, including the library and teaching laboratories.