STEM Faculty Representatives – Their promises to you

Kinesis Magazine invited 80 candidates to present their cases for becoming STEM Faculty Representatives, but only six responded. The article highlights their plans for promoting student voices and accountability. Each candidate expressed a commitment to amplify concerns, enhance communication, and foster community collaboration within the University College London while ensuring transparency and support for their peers.

Celebrating early-career researchers on the Node, preLights and FocalPlane

The Company of Biologists highlights UCL early-career researchers leveraging online platforms like preLights, the Node, and FocalPlane to enhance science communication skills and expand their professional networks. Notable contributors include Courtney Lancaster, Rob Hynds, Diego Sainz de la Maza, and others, showcasing their impactful work and collaborations.

Our medical students are in crisis; we need to act!

The recent increase in tuition fees for medical students in the UK, now £9,535, exacerbates the existing funding crisis, sparking frustration among students. Financial barriers hinder access to vital exam resources while the rigorous demands of medical training take a psychological toll, threatening to drive students away from the profession. Immediate reforms are necessary.

Does mental health first aid training work

University poses significant challenges for students, exacerbated by pandemic effects and rising inequality. Mental health support is inadequate, intensified by socio-economic barriers. While “Mental Health First Aid” courses aim to help, evidence of their effectiveness is lacking. Comprehensive evaluations are necessary before further initiatives are implemented to support student well-being.

The Rise of ADHD Diagnoses

The number of ADHD diagnoses has risen significantly over the last decade, with social media emerging as a key driver. Improved awareness and social media’s impact on lifestyle and sleep are contributing factors. Additionally, the platform can increase awareness but also propagate misinformation. Regulation is needed to address the impact of social media on ADHD diagnoses.

Changes to process undermine the Specialised Foundation Programme

NHS England announced changes to the Specialised Foundation Programme (SFP) by implementing the Preference Information Allocation (PIA) system. The UK Foundation Programme (UKFPO) claims the changes offer more opportunities and fairer recruitment, but criticisms include limited research opportunities, financial barriers, and mismatched placements for doctors. The impact extends to future applicants and marginalized groups, while calls are made for aptitude-based recruitment.