Science Students Take 'Orbyt' at UCL

Last year, sixth formers from WHS worked in partnership with students from Ricards Lodge on a special research programme.

'We attended a series of tutorials led by PhD students from University College London (UCL) that taught us the science behind technology that is used to monitor oxygen content in vital organs. We were using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure the concentrations of oxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin in the frontal cortex of the brain. Oxygenated haemoglobin is supplied to areas of neural activity in the brain and absorbs less red-corresponding wavelengths of light therefore NIRS uses this information to indirectly measure brain activity.

'My group chose to focus on the effects of memory games on brain activity and stress levels. We designed our own experimental method then used the NIRS technology to take three sets of data. The researchers helped us to create graphs and statistically analyse our data using bespoke equipment. I enjoyed being able to draw our own conclusions from the data that we collected and knowing that we have added more information to the scientific community is really exciting! We then created posters to highlight the background technology, methods and results of our projects.

'At the beginning of July, we got the opportunity to present these research posters at the Orbyts conference in UCL attended by all participating schools. We presented a brief overview of our research to the other groups in one of the lecture theatres. Some of the other group’s projects included researching the applications of quantum computers and identifying dark jets emitted from the Sun. We also spoke to other groups along with UCL staff and students about the research that we had done, and many people were very interested to hear about our findings.  

'Overall, this programme has helped to develop our research and analysis abilities, alongside scientific presentation skills. The conference at the end was a great way to see all our hard work and effort pay off.'

• Grace, Y13