Funding ACT Summer Studentships

The ACT Summer Research Studentship programme started in 2015. Since then 20 students have seized the opportunity to undertake paid research work at the RVC over the summer break.

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ACT Summer Studentships are a great opportunity for undergraduate students to 'learn and earn' during the summer break, working alongside and supported by RVC researchers.

Chloe, a second-year BVetMed student, wanted to gain technical research skills. A summer studentship gave her the perfect opportunity. She tells us about her experience,

 “I knew spots were limited so I felt excited when my application was successful. It was nice to see that the effort I put into my studies and application was recognised. 

“My research investigated whether hibernation, cold adaptation and deep-diving could be facilitated by the same mutation in mammals, birds and fishes. It was an interesting area to research because of the potential impact on a range of populations. I really enjoyed working on this project and valued having such knowledgeable supervisors to guide me. 

“Summer studentships are a great way for students to learn more about a career in research. During my studentship, I realised how much I enjoy working in a lab environment. Hopefully, I’ll be able to do more placements with a lab vet in the future and gain further research experience.”
Chloe, a BVetMed student

Chloe at our Camden Campus

Chloe at our Camden Campus

Why are paid research placements important?

Devoting a summer to research can be a difficult decision to make. As you know, often students need to spend this time earning money to support them in their studies for the following academic year. ACT Summer Studentships are available to students on all courses and give students a stipend as they study, alleviating financial concerns. Free from financial barriers, they can work alongside professional research scientists, learn new skills and gain an insight into research as a potential career.

"Gaining hands-on experience in the research lab on campus was exciting - it gave me my first taste of what a research career might entail. The opportunity to try out research in an environment focused on teaching was incredibly valuable. Everyone was very accommodating and willing to answer questions.

"I'm an international student and need to stay in London over the summer. The stipend meant I could cover my living costs and was a key factor in my decision to apply.

"It was my first time working in a laboratory so everything I did was completely new! I learnt about biomedical research, from laboratory techniques to data analysis skills. I now appreciate how much time and effort goes into the research that guides veterinary and human medicine and my mind is definitely more open to pursuing research as a potential career."
Seneca, BVetMed, Year One
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These student experiences couldn't happen without funding from YOU -
our alumni community.


THANK YOU