Aberdeen’s new medical school and a research facility where clinical trials are underway into disease like osteoporosis are opening their doors to the public.
Visitors to the Suttie Centre for Teaching and Learning and the Health Sciences Building – both University of Aberdeen facilities - will be able to meet scientists and hear about the work at the open day this Friday (March 12), taking place during National Science and Engineering Week (March 12 – 21).
The events at the buildings which are both at Foresterhill begin at 10.30am with two talks in the Suttie Centre - Professor Marion Campbell will explain why we need clinical trials and Dr Stephen Turner will discuss his work in child health.
The public will then be able to take tours of the clinical research facilities of the Health Sciences Building and of ward six in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Tours will leave the Suttie Centre reception at 11.30am, 12 noon, 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 3pm and there be the opportunity for visitors to have blood pressure tests taken as well as body fat and dietary analysis.
At 1.30pm there will be a Question Time session entitled Clinical Research - Fit’s it a Aboot in the Lecture Theatre in the Suttie Centre featuring a panel of research experts and research volunteers who will answer any questions from the public about clinical research.
The day comes to a close with another two talks in the Suttie Centre – Marianne Nicolson, Consultant Medical Oncologist with NHS Grampian, will speak about new treatments for cancer sufferers while Roy Soiza, Consultant Geriatrician with NHS Grampian, will discuss the secret to living well into a ripe old age.
Dr Marie Labus, Clinical Facilities Manager said: “This is the second open day we have held and they are designed to be informative, educational and most of all enjoyable.
“The event allows members of the public to learn more about what clinical research involves and the types of clinical research taking place locally.
“Our open day also hopes to stimulate senior school students whose aspirations may lie in medicine or health sciences, as well as anyone else who may have an interest in clinical research.”
More information on the event can be found on www.abdn.ac.uk/crf/opendaywhere people can register their attendance. Places can also be booked by contacting Dr Marie Labus on 01224 559261.