Burnham Grammar and Langley Grammar staff and students celebrated their best ever performances at the Lonza sponsored Junior & Senior Scientist of the Year competitions. Hosted at Lonza’s Slough offices on 28^th September 11 finalists presented to Lonza’s scientists on such diverse topics: from the importance of polymers, the Zika virus and the Big Bang Theory.

In the Junior competition Cameron Underwood and Jasleen Sahota (both 14 years old) won first prize with their presentation on the Big Bang Theory. They were complimented on their knowledge of the theories and clear explanations. Jasleen who was very nervous beforehand overcame her natural shyness and received glowing praise from chief judge Jon Cook, Head of Analytical Services at Lonza. Ben Holdship and Mansha Sahay were runners-up with a presentation on polymers, involving everyone by passing a new £5 note around the audience who were challenged to tear it. Then they gave their explanation on the many advantages and durability of this polymer. Kieran Gaidhu and Varanya Varatharanjan who came third discussed the safe testing of new drugs and the ethics surrounding testing.

In the Senior competition for 17-18 year olds it was Harry Chapple who won the top prize of £100. Discussing at length the future of powering future space missions to Mars and beyond, he made a passionate argument for increasing spending to develop nuclear fusion technology with its potential to help all mankind, similar to the new technologies which developed out of the Apollo missions to the Moon. Runner-up Charlie Holdship revealed his passion for catalysts, believing they have the potential to revolutionise environmental chemistry which he would like to study at university. Then we were treated to cake by Katie Bilbrough! Her presentation on Jurassic Farm took us on her personal journey of discovery and by using cupcakes as an analogy to explain genetics, secured her third place. Other finalists Haddon Lionel Ganippa of Langely Grammar and Katie Yeung investigated medical technological advances and the Zika virus.

Also there was a very special person in the audience, Emily Wheeler, who 4 years ago as a student in her final year at Burnham Grammar won this competition and now works for Lonza, proving that these events create a talent pipeline.

Sharon Hitch Lonza’s Learning & Development Manager who organised the day said: “It’s great to be able to inspire our future generation of scientists.  The depth of research the students showed in their presentations was truly impressive, demonstrating their interest in science.”

Chief judge Jon Cook “The students are to be congratulated – the diversity and standard of the presentations were exceptional”

Mrs Ciara Moriarty Head of Biology from Langley Grammar said “This was an excellent opportunity for our students to experience a professional environment.”

Dr Gillespie Headteacher of Burnham Grammar says: “These opportunities for our students created by our links with Lonza are exceptional and boost our Science Specialism to prospective and current students.” 

Judy Trinder, Communications 28.09.16