Future Medics Take the Lead… Student-Led Medical Conference Inspires Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
27th February 26
Aspiring medics at Abbey College Cambridge hosted a dynamic, student-led medical conference, Medicine Uncovered, exploring the future of healthcare through innovation, ethics and education, while also guiding the next generation of applicants on how to amplify their medical school applications.
The conference welcomed approximately 65 students from Years 10 to 13, attracting participants from schools across the Cambridgeshire region, including Cambridge Academy for Science and Technology, The Leys School, Felsted School, St Mary’s School Cambridge and St Bede’s.
The day featured keynote presentations from a trio of leading medical experts, including Nanoscientist Professor Dame Ijeoma Uchegbu, President of Wolfson College and Chief Scientific Officer of Nanomerics Ltd. She explored how nanotechnology is transforming drug delivery, explaining the drug development from concept to clinical application, and demonstrating how precision delivery systems can overcome major barriers such as the blood–brain barrier, improve treatment effectiveness, and reduce side effects in conditions ranging from brain tumours to chronic pain and eye disease.
Dr Priscilla Day-Walsh, Next Generation Fellow at the Centre for Trophoblast Research, Bye-Fellow at Homerton College, and visiting scientist at the Quadram Institute, addressed the inequalities in women’s health research and representation, particularly in reproductive care. Focusing on uterine fibroids, she called for more inclusive research, earlier diagnosis, and equitable access to treatment to address systemic disparities affecting pregnancy outcomes and quality of life, highlighting the need for policy reform, education and advocacy to support reproductive health equity.
Professor Andrew Grace, Consultant Cardiologist at Cambridge University Hospitals and Professor at Cambridge Cardiovascular, explored the evolution of heart disease over the past century and the technology reshaping its diagnosis and treatment – from early ECGs to high-resolution cardiac mapping and wearable devices. His session highlighted how innovation is deepening understanding of atrial fibrillation and improving patient care, while showcasing future career opportunities at the intersection of biology, data and engineering.
Another address was delivered by Georgina Norris, Patient and Public Involvement Coordinator for the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, who highlighted the importance of embedding patient and public perspectives within medical research. With experience running advisory groups at local and national levels, she encouraged students to engage with research and advisory opportunities involving public contributors, individuals with lived experience and communities affected by rare diseases.
Following the inspirational guest speaker sessions, students participated in interactive workshops, translating scientific knowledge into a practical understanding of medical careers. In collaboration with Medical Mavericks, attendees experienced hands-on demonstrations exploring diagnostic and clinical techniques, including blood sampling, ECG recording and printing, simulated keyhole surgery and ultrasound technology. The session also introduced the breadth of career pathways within the NHS and the broader healthcare sector.
The conference further showcased student leadership through a thought-provoking interactive ethics lesson led by Year 12 students as well as a hands-on university interview skills lesson by Year 13 medical school applicants, providing younger participants with the opportunity to engage directly with student mentors.
Abbey College Cambridge Principal Dr Elena Hesse added: “Whether curious about cutting-edge medical technology or passionate about solving real-world health challenges, the student-led conference was a day of inspiration, collaboration, and discovery. All three speakers brought vast medical experience they were able to share, from being a top consultant, to medical research, and the development of new medicines. The talks gave a great insight into the breadth of the media profession and how it continues to evolve, highlighting the many pathways available to students who are considering a future in healthcare.”
Furthermore, Abbey College’s Head of Medicine, Mrs Sephora Day reflected “Events such as the Medicine Uncovered conference are invaluable for prospective medics because they bring the realities of the profession to life beyond the classroom. They encourage students to explore both the breadth and depth of health across clinical practice and research fields, helping them to understand the many ways they might contribute to the future of medicine. By empowering students to create and lead sessions themselves, these experiences also develop essential interpersonal, communication, leadership and teamwork skills, qualities that are just as vital as academic achievement in shaping the next generation of compassionate and effective healthcare professionals.”
Speaking on their experience, student Vania Ahmadi added: “I now have a much better grasp of the various career paths in medicine and how diverse they can be thanks to the conference. I learned from listening to various speakers that there isn’t a single, set path to becoming a doctor and that interests can change over time. I also discovered how crucial resilience, teamwork, and communication are in addition to academic aptitude. I now have a more realistic understanding of the benefits and difficulties of working in the healthcare industry thanks to the day.”
