Bangor University Open Days to empower the next generation of scientists

The College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering at Bangor University is aiming to set the record straight on the so-called ‘snowflake’ generation by putting out a call for students determined to make a difference to the world’s problems.

A recent survey* revealed 85% of young people, far from being the over-sensitive souls portrayed in the media, feel empowered to tackle issues like global warming, rising sea levels and widespread pollution.

According to Dean of College Professor Paul Spencer: “You only have to look at movements like the global climate strike and personalities like Greta Thunberg to realise the passion this generation has for the environment. All they need is the education to turn that commitment into action.”

A series of Open Days at the college will be an opportunity for the scientists and engineers of tomorrow to see exactly what courses are available to start them on that journey.

With degrees covering everything from Zoology Marine Biology and Forestry to Computer Science and Engineering, Oceanography and Conservation, the university is one of the UK’s leading institutions for teaching and research in the natural sciences.

It has contributed to a number of significant research programmes, including a Friends of the Earth survey that found microplastics in every UK inland-waterway tested,  and a landmark report on the potential link between the loss of sea ice in the Arctic and extreme weather across the Northern hemisphere.

By coming to one of the Open Days, potential students can see for themselves what Bangor University offers, both for their academic studies and social life. The location, at the centre of one of the most diverse ecosystems in the UK, is perfect for the natural sciences, while Snowdonia National Park  and the North Wales coastline make it a playground for lovers of the great outdoors.

“We call it ‘studying between the mountains and the sea’”, says Professor Spencer. “After all, what other UK university is there where you can walk to the top of the highest mountain in England and Wales and then go surfing… all on the same day? At the same time, students here enjoy a first class education taught by experts in their field that gives them the best possible start in their chosen career – as the high employment rates for graduates of our School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering demonstrate.”

The Open Days are being supported on the Bangor University website and social media channels by a new video presented by students from the schools of Natural Sciences, Ocean Sciences and Computer Science and Electronic Engineering.

Based on the theme of ‘Make a Difference’, it  shows how the university’s teaching and research can go on to have a direct effect on the future of the planet.

For more information and to book an Open Day place for the 13th October, 27th October or 9th November, visit coese-opendays.bangor.ac.uk

* Gen Z. Preparing to Face the Future.  Adage/UNIDAYS.

Publication date: 4 October 2019