News

Biomedical Sciences degree launched in partnership with NHS

A new degree in Biomedical Sciences will be launched in October in a unique partnership between the University and the National Health Service.

The new scheme, in the Department of Biological Sciences, combines a strong academic programme with a vocational degree. Modules will be taught by NHS staff, and the degree includes a week spent working with biomedical scientists in an NHS hospital.

The NHS is also offering £1,000 a year bursaries to up to 20 students who undertake the four-year Biomedical Sciences programme, which includes an additional year working as a trainee biomedical scientist in a hospital laboratory.

The new degree is awaiting final accreditation by the Institute of Biomedical Scientists, and approval by the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine, which will result in accelerated progression for graduates choosing a career in the NHS.

The University is also establishing an agreement with the Queen Mary Medical School in London to enable the best graduates to pursue a fast track qualification for a career in medicine.

Professor Chris Cooper, who has spearheaded development of the new programme, said: 'This degree is unique because it has been developed from the start in collaboration with local and regional NHS hospitals, and students will be taught by practising biomedical scientists. It combines the University's academic and research excellence with a strong vocational degree.'

Students will learn the theories underpinning modern biomedical research, the biology of disease, and the skills and techniques associated with being a biomedical scientist. As well as a clearly-defined career structure in the NHS, graduates could be employed in the pharmaceutical or food industry, or in forensic or veterinary science.

For further information about the new schemes, contact Professor Cooper on 01206 872752, or visit www.essex.ac.uk/bs/ugrad/ug-bms.htm

Gift funds new essay competition

A £500 prize will be awarded each year to an outstanding student in the Department of Electronic Systems Engineering thanks to a very generous gift from Cora Siddiqui, widow of Professor Shamim Siddiqui.

Cora Siddiqui and Professor Ivor Crewe 

The prize money and a certificate will be awarded to the student who submits the best essay on a theme of general intellectual interest. Subject matter will not be restricted but philosophy of science, the impact of scientific knowledge on humanity, ethical and social issues arising from science and technology, classical music, opera and cricket are examples of topics that reflect Professor Siddiqui's own interests.

Professor Ivor Crewe said 'It is a shame that this gift has come about due to such sad and unexpected circumstances. However, it will ensure that Shamim Siddiqui's marvellous contribution to the University, both as an academic member of staff and as a friend to many, will not be forgotten.'

The first Award will be made at a lecture dedicated to Professor Siddiqui which will be held at the beginning of the next academic year.

Also in the printed June edition of Wyvern:

• These boots are made for walking

• News from the Data Archive

• Minister launches higher education partnership