DiveIn CDT supports In2research summer placements

DiveIn CDT is proud to support a number of 8-week summer research placements through In2research, a programme developed by In2scienceUK and UCL to improve access to postgraduate research and research careers for people from low socioeconomic backgrounds and underrepresented groups. The programme combines research placements with mentoring, skills development and opportunities to build confidence and networks within academic research environments.

The placements give participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of working in a university research setting, contribute to live research projects, and explore what further study or a future in research might look like. For DiveIn CDT, the scheme is also an important way to support widening participation in research and help create more inclusive routes into postgraduate study.

This summer, three In2research participants are undertaking placements with DiveIn CDT researchers across a diverse range of projects, spanning photonic sensing, advanced microscopy and peptide design.

Murray Angus, hosted by Alasdair Clark, is developing a novel photonic sensing platform to monitor liquid quality for partners in the Scottish water and whisky sectors. The placement gives Murray experience across laboratory testing, technology development and data analysis.

Adorabella Nkana, hosted by Caroline Muellenbroich, is contributing to the characterisation of a custom-built three-photon microscope. The placement introduces Adorabella to advanced optical imaging and biophotonics.

Eva Skinner, hosted by Drew Thomson, is using computational modelling to design peptides that may bind to the signalling protein ubiquitin, then testing them using laboratory techniques including peptide synthesis and fluorescence polarisation titration.

Hearing from past participants

We were also pleased to welcome back Daniel Harris, a previous In2research participant who was hosted by Ross Forgan and is now undertaking a PhD at the University of Glasgow. Daniel’s progression from summer placement to doctoral research highlights the potential impact of schemes such as In2research.

Daniel’s story is available on the In2scienceUK website.

Supporting inclusive pathways into research

Beyond the research experience itself, participants benefit from mentoring, workshops and the chance to build confidence and networks within academic research environments  – structured support designed to strengthen future applications and understanding of postgraduate pathways. The placements also give hosts and research groups a valuable opportunity to share their expertise and open up their research environments to a wider range of future researchers.

Thank you to this year’s placement hosts for supporting the programme, and to Murray, Adorabella and Eva for their contributions so far.