School News

The term finished in full bloom for a group of budding biologists from Morrison’s Academy and Crieff High School who took centre stage at one of the UK’s most prestigious scientific events – the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in London.

The Secondary School pupils were invited to exhibit their pioneering research into the DNA sequencing of daffodils, a collaborative project supported by the Royal Society Partnership Grants Scheme. 

Working closely over the past year, pupils from both schools joined forces with a postdoctoral researcher from the James Hutton Institute to explore the genetic makeup of daffodils, focusing on the sequencing and assembly of their chloroplast genomes.

Through a series of workshops and lab visits, the youngsters learned how to isolate DNA, sequence genetic material, and perform complex bioinformatics analyses – skills typically reserved for university-level study and professional research labs.

As a result of their dedication and hard work, they earned the opportunity to exhibit their findings at the Royal Society’s annual Summer Science Exhibition, held in the heart of London at the beginning of July. They presented alongside 13 elite research groups and over 300 leading scientists from across the UK with an audience of world-renowned researchers, Fellows of the Royal Society, and science enthusiasts from around the globe.

Their display sparked curiosity and conversation, offering visitors an insight into the untapped genetic diversity of daffodils and their ability to communicate complex science clearly and enthusiastically impressed everyone who attended.

Speaking about the experience, Andrew McGarva, Rector of Morrison’s Academy highlighted the incredible learning journey the pupils had undertaken. “This project has given these pupils access to cutting-edge science and research environments. They’ve developed real-world skills, gained insight into the world of scientific research and grown in confidence together.”

“With their newfound skills and experience, they are already looking ahead to further studies and discoveries and look forward to returning to the Royal Society not as pupils, but as leading researchers in their own right.”