Pupils Visit MHRA Laboratories for Insight into Cutting-Edge Biomedical Science
16 June 2026 - Academic
A group of pupils recently visited the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) site at South Mimms, gaining first-hand insight into the vital work carried out to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medicines used across the UK.
The MHRA is responsible for regulating all medicines, from vaccines and stem cell therapies to antibodies, as well as identifying counterfeit drugs that could pose risks to public health. During the visit, pupils were introduced to researchers working at the forefront of biomedical science, who shared their expertise on topics including the development of the seasonal influenza vaccine, monitoring wastewater to detect polio outbreaks, and the use of induced pluripotent stem cells in treating heart disease.
Pupils also learned how advanced analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) are used to test and verify medicines, ensuring their safety and quality.
A tour of the facility provided a fascinating look into the labs themselves. Highlights included seeing where all UK stem cell therapies are stored, observing researchers culturing stem cells, and viewing an Oxford Nanopore sequencing device in action. Pupils also explored how laboratories are organised by containment levels to maintain strict biosecurity standards.
The visit concluded with a ‘speed networking’ session, where pupils met a range of MHRA staff, from PhD students to highly experienced scientists. This provided a valuable opportunity to learn about different scientific career pathways, including the Civil Service Fast Stream graduate programme.
One pupil commented:
‘It was useful to be able to speak to scientists about what they do and being able to see where they work in the labs was interesting. It made really consider a future career in STEM and research.’
Thanks so much to the MHRA for hosting us and we look forward to returning in the future.
Laura Manning
Head of Careers
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