As part of the Public Engagement activities at LSTM, researchers Hayley Tyrer, Gemma Molyneux and Rachel Clare, who are based in the Department of Parasitology working as part of the A·WOL consortium, have set up the STEM Ambassador’s Team. This newly-formed group will be responsible for organising ambassador training at LSTM, promoting staff and student involvement with STEM-related activities, and publicising these activities across LSTM with the support of its Public Engagement Manager, Elli Wright.
These STEM-related activities aim to inspire school pupils in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These activities are diverse and can include giving careers talks, providing technical advice in the classroom, supporting projects, networking with pupils and teachers, devising or delivering experiments or demonstrations, and helping students with mock job interviews.
The Ambassador’s programme is coordinated nationally by STEMNET, which uses local bodies to deliver training and provide support. These local bodies include MerseySTEM and STEMfirst. Gemma, Rachel and Hayley undertook STEM training through STEMfirst, based in Lancashire, and are now STEM ambassadors (pictured holding their Ambassador badges).
Gemma Molyneux commented: “We hope that involvement in STEM activities will lead to staff enrichment and motivation so that it will become an established part of our Core Professional Development.” Hayley Tyrer continued: “We hope that with enough enthusiasm, as an institute, we can compete for the STEM Awards and be acknowledged for giving something back to the community. This will be extremely valuable for the reputation of LSTM.”
If you are interested in learning more about STEM ambassador training or have any questions about getting involved, please contact the STEM Ambassadors Team on stemambassadorteam@lstmed.ac.uk. If you have any general public engagement queries, please contact LSTM’s Public Engagement Manager on elli.wright@lstmed.ac.uk.