On October 17th, VJ Gallery in the Main building hosted the poster exhibition for Cardiff Undergraduates Research Opportunities Programme (CUROP). The exhibition allowed students to present the work they carried out over the summer to other students and staff. It was an opportunity for others to learn about new research and promote discussion on different topics.
CUROP is a scheme that runs over the summer aimed at students entering their third year of study. It allows students to carry out research into specific topics of interest. The projects have run over many academic schools in the past, including Cardiff Business School, School of Earth and Ocean Sciences and the School of Chemistry to name only a few.
Sophie Wheeler, a recent graduate of the University, took part in the CUROP programme this summer. Her research was titled The role of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 in the bone metastasis of Prostate Cancer. Sophie commented that ÔÇ£it was a great experience, and allowed [me] to gain invaluable experience of what it is like to work in a lab, and pursue a research career.ÔÇØ
Students are encouraged to apply for a bursary that can help them during the time of study. The programme is advertised after Easter and research supervisors from each school accept applications from students. CUROP funded 150 undergraduate research placements this summer making it one of the largest research schemes in the UK.
Dr Nathan Roberts recommends students to participate in CUROP for several reasons, ÔÇ£itÔÇÖs a chance to get directly involved in some of the most exciting and important research projects underway at Cardiff University. Also, the students who undertake the projects tell us all the time that they have developed very significant research skills that are of use to their future studies and careers.ÔÇØ When asked if he had a favourite he commented that ÔÇ£it is basically impossible to pick out individual projects as they are so impressive across the board.ÔÇØ
This year at the photo exhibition students were able to unleash their creative side when using props to explain their work. For example, John Rhydian Thomas brought a crayfish to help represent his work in Bioscience.
Josh Mcdonagh, another student, was offered his studentship by an academic. His research focused on two projects; identifying and evaluating similar projects and mapping existing research, which could contribute to the socio-economic regeneration of Grangetown. He told us that ÔÇ£I had great support from my supervisors along the way and the CUROP studentship allowed me to explore topics in greater depth than I had done during my studies.ÔÇØ
The programme primarily helps with research skills but also boasts chances to develop employability skills. Sophie Wheeler also commented on how she practiced her presentation and writing skills, which are a necessity for most degrees and future careers. ÔÇ£It was the best way I could have spent my summer and it has prepared me perfectly for my postgraduate studies.ÔÇØ
Mohammed Abid, a third year Optometry student, worked on a study discovering new diagnostic tools for glaucoma. He agrees that it prepares you for the next step on the educational ladder. ÔÇ£It was always my plan to do a PhD following my Optometry degree and I think CUROP just solidified that idea for me. I would definitely recommend CUROP to others.ÔÇØ When asked if there was a particular highlight of the programme, Mohammed said, ÔÇ£although the whole experience was enjoyable, my favourite part was collecting my finalised printed poster. It is always gratifying to see the final product of work you have put effort in over the length of weeks.ÔÇØ
Regardless of your interests and what academic discipline you study, the benefits really are invaluable. Not only does it further your research skills and provide the opportunity to study something of interest in depth, it gives you a head start on preparing for postgraduate courses and their applications.
Katy Harris
If you are interested in taking part  in CUROP next year, please contact: education@cardiff.ac.uk
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