LIFE LAB - Connecting Communities with the UK's leading Biotechnology and Life Science Hub

ended

LIFE LAB will bring researchers and publics together by drawing on the excellence of the UK’s premier region for life science research in and around Cambridge and East England . Our proposal name is inspired by those journeys from research to real-world applications that impact on people’s lives and by the notion of bringing our respective LABs to LIFE. LIFE LAB will host a compelling programme of researcher-led events in Cambridge and surrounding towns on 28 Sept 2018 and 27 Sept 2019. A primary aim of LIFE LAB is to engage communities (schools and public) not traditionally connecting with the ‘Cambridge phenomenon’ and for whom this research powerhouse on their doorstep presents real opportunity in terms highlighting the impact of research on their daily lives and promoting new career pathways to study and work. Our LIFE LAB team represents a group of world-leading research organisations with a unique story to share. This builds on centuries of history and achievement, ground-breaking discoveries (including the structure of DNA and the Human Genome) and present-day frontier research and innovation. LIFE LAB will connect researchers and the general public across the UK’s leading eco-system for life sciences while celebrating the European Year of Cultural Heritage in 2018 by casting a spotlight on science - past, present and future – as an important part of culture. LIFE LAB will be immersive - promoting hands-on approaches and involving people in research through the Nights; especially early stage research where dialogue and airing of views could bring alternative perspectives. LIFE LAB will build on partnership developed across the public engagement and education professionals in our consortium to extend reach into the region’s schools and teacher networks. Lastly, but importantly, LIFE LAB will showcase the importance of collaboration, freedom of mobility and respect of shared knowledge and values – particularly important at a time of change.