The students from Ark Burlington Danes Academy were given an exclusive tour of Imperial’s £200 million Molecular Sciences Research Hub and the I-X centre at the I-HUB in White City
A group of budding scientists from Ark Burlington Danes Academy recently got a hands-on experience with cutting-edge research at Imperial College London, thanks to the Hammersmith & Fulham (H&F) Upstream Pathway Bond. This pioneering initiative is helping young people in White City explore careers in the borough’s thriving Innovation District.
The initiative, which has connected 82 local organisations with young people over the past year, organised the visit to Imperial’s world-leading chemistry labs. Students had the opportunity to shadow scientists, interact with high-tech research equipment, and gain valuable insights into careers in science and technology.
“I really enjoyed exploring the gas chromatography machine and learned a lot about it,” said 16-year-old Samir, one of the students on the visit. Fellow student Grigori, 17, added: “The robotics section reinforced my passion for science.”
Luckshme Loganathan, a teacher at Ark Burlington Danes Academy, praised the programme: “By creating direct links between our classroom teaching and real-world applications, we’re helping students discover their interests and develop skills that prepare them for future careers in science and technology.”
A Glimpse into Cutting-Edge Research
The students were given an exclusive tour of Imperial’s £200 million Molecular Sciences Research Hub and the I-X centre at the I-HUB in White City. The research hub is home to laboratories where scientists analyse molecular structures and chemical compounds, playing a vital role in developing new medicines and materials.
Meanwhile, I-X is Imperial’s interdisciplinary AI initiative, bringing together experts in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics. The visit included demonstrations of advanced scientific instruments and a Q&A session with postdoctoral researchers who shared their experiences in academia and industry.
“I didn’t realise the complexity of the equipment and instruments at play,” said Alby, 17. Fellow student Yash added: “It’s transformed my perspective on science.”
Pathway to Success
The visit was part of the H&F Upstream Pathway Bond, an initiative that bridges the gap between education and industry by linking students with businesses in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and media (STEM³). H&F Deputy Leader, Councillor Alex Sanderson, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “We’re helping young people in H&F discover the amazing career paths right here on their doorstep. Our Pathway Bond connects bright local minds with inspiring STEM³ companies to help nurture the next generation of inventors and innovators. It’s part of our journey to deliver economic growth and share the prosperity of our booming borough with everyone.”
Participating businesses offer work experience, apprenticeships, mentoring, and skills development, while also benefiting from a local talent pipeline. Dr Sarah Al-Beidh, Research Development Manager at Imperial’s Department of Chemistry, led the students through the laboratories. “We are always excited to welcome local schools,” she said. “We are dedicated to nurturing their interest in science, fostering hands-on learning and helping them discover opportunities within the world of chemistry and beyond!”
Imperial College London, ranked the top university in the UK and Europe in 2024, is one of 82 organisations supporting the Pathway Bond. Other partners include global companies such as L’Oréal, Novartis, and the BBC, all working to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.
