UCL-Oxford Vaccine Development Project

Following an introduction to vaccines and biochemical engineering delivered to all Y9 and Y10 students, 23 students volunteered to participate in this project as an after-school activity. Students worked in small groups over three months carrying out research with the goal of completing three tasks:

• Research a given vaccine technology (how it works, advantages and disadvantages, examples) 
• Consider which factors may have a major impact on a given vaccine manufacturing goal
• Identify some of the factors which may have had a major impact in speeding up the development of COVID-19 vaccines

The students were supported by the Vax-Hub team attending 2 after-school science club sessions at the school. The project culminated with each group preparing 10-minute presentations to present in front of UCL academics at a celebration event at UCL Biochemical Engineering and the best presentations were awarded gift vouchers in recognition of students’ work and commitment to the project. 

Feedback from students 

“At first I didn't really think it will help me as much and that I'll just leave after one meeting, but I still wanted to try something new for the first time and I don't regret not going because it was a very memorable experience”

“I enjoyed researching about different vaccines and what happens in our body after taking them”

“For the people who have done the project this year, we should have another opportunity to do a different topic next year – whilst another set of groups are doing it about vaccines – since it was really fun”

“It was a fun experience and hope to do more in the future. It also helped me with my confidence by presenting in front of many professors”

94 % of students stated that they would take part in another project in the future!

Feedback from a teacher at Langdon Park School 

“I would like to express my appreciation for arranging such an inspirational event. Thanks to the Vax-Hub team, the students have experienced an amazing opportunity to help build their confidence, as well as develop very important skills”
- Yasemin Ozcan, Science Specialist Teacher

Contact:

For more information on how to engage with the Vax-Hub outreach programme please contact:
Ludovica Vaiarelli
Vax-Hub Outreach Coordinator
ludovica.vaiarelli.18@ucl.ac.uk