Scientists plan their return to the lab

Our researchers at the University of York are now in their 11th week of home working but are maintaining progress on projects and preparing for a gradual return to the lab.

Professor Jenny Southgate, Director of the Jack Birch Unit, says that two of the unit’s technicians have begun setting up the laboratory for the scientists to start a phased return from June 8 with restricted numbers and social distancing put in place.

“It feels like a big step in the right direction!” said Professor Southgate, seen here in her home office where she says email traffic has increased and exam marking has begun for her.

“We are using Zoom a lot for communications such as weekly lab meetings, one-to-ones and small research meetings and even a conference call with India,” she said. “We will use another piece of software called SLACK for me to monitor who is in and out of the lab.”

Two new PhD students and a Master's by Research student have been appointed to the unit, where internationally recognised research into bladder cancer is supported by York Against Cancer.

One of the PhD students, Ryan Ellison, will be the JBU’s next York Against Cancer student. Ryan is currently completing a Master's degree in Oxford.