Sixth form students gain insight into NHS research

Two students have received an insight into working for the NHS after completing research placements at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).

Mia Dale and Kirsty Wong, who are both students at East Norfolk Sixth Form College, joined the rheumatology department for the summer as part of Nuffield Research Placements.

Mia Dale and Kirsty Wong who joined NNUH this summer with Nuffield Research Placements

The scheme is open to Year 12 students who are considering a future career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Mia and Kirsty were allocated real research projects by Prof Karl Gaffney and Dr Chetan Mukhtyar, Consultant Rheumatologists. They have investigated the incidence of type 2 diabetes in patients with giant cell arteritis and analysed changing trends in biologics prescribing for axial spondyloarthritis.

Their research reports will be submitted for a National Gold Crest Award, presented at a regional Nuffield research event, and will be in the running for the national Young Scientist of the year competition.

Mia said she had been planning to do a biomedical science degree when she completes her A-levels, however her placement had made her reassess her options.

“After a really positive couple of weeks, I think I have been converted to study medicine. I have learnt what it is like to be in a work environment. It is really interesting to do research that feels a bit beyond me at the moment, but I will be doing in a couple of years.”

Kirsty added that staff had been really welcoming and it was “really interesting” to do real life research.

For more information about Nuffield Research Placements, visit www.nuffieldfoundation.org/nrp

Mia Dale and Kirsty Wong who joined NNUH this summer with Nuffield Research Placements. With Prof Karl Gaffney