Researchers from Westminster’s School of Life Sciences led an interactive activity for sixth form students at the Quantum Schools Celebration, sharing their pioneering research in quantum biology. The event was hosted by the Institute of Physics (IOP) in collaboration with the Royal Institution (RI) as part of UK Quantum Week.
The event brought together around 150 sixth form students at the RI on 7 November as part of the IOP’s UK Quantum Week, held to celebrate the United Nations’ Year of Quantum. The programme consisted of a variety of talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities from universities and research institutes across the UK designed to spark an interest in the rapidly growing field of quantum science.
Westminster was invited to take part by the RI in recognition of the University’s expertise in quantum biology, which is a cutting-edge field exploring quantum physics in biological life. Since 2018, the University of Westminster’s Research Centre for Optimal Health (ReCOH) has partnered with the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus at The Guy Foundation Quantum Biology Lab, with the aim to advance understanding of the fundamental quantum and biophysical processes that underpin life.
The Westminster team outside the RI
The Westminster team consisted of ReCOH researchers Dr Rhys Mould, Professor Louise Thomas, Grace Pennelli and Sanika Ghayal, who set up a discovery stand introducing students to emerging research questions at the interface of physics and biology. Throughout the afternoon, the team spoke with students about how mitochondria might use quantum tunnelling to support human metabolism and how quantum mechanics might affect the biology of astronauts as they travel into deep space.
Grace Pennelli talking to students
About the event Dr Mould said: "Quantum physics can often seem enigmatic and intimidating, and I think demonstrating applications in familiar areas, such as our mitochondria, provided a new perspective and understanding of just how pervasive and important quantum is, and how the disciplines of science are becoming increasingly linked. It was encouraging to receive so much interest and thoughtful questions from students!"
Westminster’s work with The Guy Foundation directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Biological and Biomedical Sciences courses at the University of Westminster.
Find out more about pioneering research from The Guy Foundation Quantum Biology Lab.
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