School and college pupils recently celebrated the completion of successful marine research projects which they have carried out in association with the Darwin Centre for Biology and Medicine.

The work was part of the ‘discovering living light’ project, supported by the Wellcome Trust, which utilises the phenomena of bioluminescent and fluorescent light to inspire participants to want to discover more about the science behind flashes and glows.

“This was an exciting opportunity for young people to contribute to our ongoing marine research programme looking into the bioluminescence of particular marine creatures, including jellyfish”, said project manager Dr Valerie Morse. “The research has medical applications and the participants have been able to include the experiences they have gained in fieldwork and laboratory work in their university applications. We are very grateful for the support from the Wellcome Trust and the Port of Milford Haven which has enabled us to offer this exciting opportunity.”

Student Tracy Wilkinson commented: “As part of my jellyfish project, I was intrigued to learn that a local company extract collagen from one species, which is used in stem cell research.”

Matthew Hickman, programme manager for informal learning, Wellcome, said: “Wellcome is pleased to support projects like Discovering Living Light, which help young people to have more authentic science experiences and put school-based learning into a real-world context.”

The celebration event saw each of the students present their work to an audience including representatives from the Darwin Centre for Biology and Medicine, Pembrokeshire County Council, Port of Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. They were then presented with medals and certificates for their project work by Professor Anthony Campbell, who is scientific director of the Darwin Centre.

For more information about the ‘Discovering Living Light’ project please visit http://darwincentre.com/research