Would you like to gain an insight into how cells are grown and studied to understand human disease?

We have a great opportunity for young people to take part in a two day work experience opportunity in the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s Cellular Operations programme. Eight places are available, two in each of the following teams: gene editing, cell screening, cell modelling, and spatial genomics.

This work experience is an introduction to molecular and cellular laboratories and is aimed at young people who have little or no lab experience.

Gene Editing: 

Gene editing is a core high-throughput facility at the Wellcome Sanger Institute that supports scientific groups with its expertise in the novel gene editing techniques.

As part of the work experience scheme you will learn the basic molecular biology techniques, like PCR, gel electrophoresis and molecular cloning. You will get an insight into the day-to-day life of a molecular biologist and an introduction to bioinformatics from our staff bioinformatician. You will also learn the foundations of CRISPR editing and conduct a small project to clone your very own plasmid gRNA vector!

Cellular Modelling:

Cellular Modelling is a facility specialising in diverse high-throughput cell biology. We provide expertise in generating 3D organoid models from human primary tissues, including cancer, mucosal and reproductive tissues. Our aim is to create models that can be used by the wider research community to improve understanding towards the above disease mechanisms.

Come spend a day with our experts and dive into the fascinating world of 3D research. You would learn how these models are created, maintained, expanded and finally distributed all across the globe. You would also spend some time learning about the differences between different types of organoids and grow your own model! 

Cellular Screening:

The Cellular Screening team is at the forefront of scientific discovery, harnessing the power of CRISPR technology to unlock the secrets of cellular biology. Our team is specialised in carrying out large-scale CRISPR screening projects that push the boundaries of knowledge in this field.  

As part of your shadowing experience you will learn how cancer cells are grown and cultured in the lab, explore cancer models spanning from haploid cell lines to 3D organoid lines and observe how we employ CRISPR technology for genetic editing of the DNA within these cells. So come spend a day with experts in CRISPR technology and learn the basics of cell culture, gene editing and the applications of this technology in modern medicine. 

Spatial Genomics:

Spatial genomics combines molecular and morphological data, mapping gene expression within a tissue sample to the physical location in which it is occurring. This expands our knowledge of tissue structure and cellular interactions, allowing investigations into disease and development.

The Spatial Genomics Platform (SGP) combines histology and molecular biology expertise to provide a Spatial Genomics service to the institute.  As part of your shadowing experience you will be introduced to a variety of processes that form the spatial genomics lab workflow. This will begin with an introduction to tissue processing and histology, which is the starting point for all spatial genomic experiments. This will be followed by the morphological and molecular processes required to check sample quality. Finally, you will also be introduced to the spatial technologies used in the lab, such as Visium CytAssist and Xenium.

Students will experience talks, tours and training in different cutting-edge lab processes.

Who are the Cellular Operations work experience days for?

Applications are invited from A level and T-level students.

This work experience is an introduction to molecular and cellular laboratories and is aimed at young people who have little or no lab experience.

Where is it taking place?

Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA

How do I apply?

Applications should be made via this form by 9am on 14 October 2024.

Eight places are available, two in each of the following teams: gene editing, cell screening, cell modelling, and spatial genomics.

Please include the following in your application: 

Motivation: Clearly explain why you are interested in this experience, providing specific reasons for your interest.

Interest in the Sanger Institute: Describe why you have chosen the Sanger Institute and what appeals to you about it.

Preferred Team: Indicate your preferred team or area within the institute where you would like to be placed.

Successful applicants will be notified by email.