Future science leaders shine at Abertay University’s annual Generation Science showcase

Final-year students from Biomedical, Forensics and Food Sciences unveil cutting-edge projects

A celebration of innovative student research returned to Abertay University this week, as the annual Generation Science event took place in a new, expanded format.

Held on Wednesday 7 May 2025, this year’s event saw final-year students from Abertay’s Biomedical, Forensic Sciences, and Food Sciences programmes present their Honours projects in an outdoor marquee, offering a bright and open space for discussion and discovery.

The showcase featured more than 50 student projects, spanning a wide range of disciplines and themes — from exploring the role of the gut microbiome in Parkinson’s disease pathology, to analysing public attitudes towards non-hormonal male contraception, and characterising the effects of ultra-processed foods and sugar addiction.

Andrea Cameron, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences, said:

Generation Science continues to be a superb showcase of our student work, and this year was no exception. The creativity, depth and relevance of the projects on display reflects the outstanding efforts of our students and the dedication of our staff. It’s been a real privilege to see our student supporters and industry partners come together to celebrate the next generation of scientists.

Before the poster exhibition started, a group of college students was given a guided tour of the displays, participating in interactive experiments and gaining insight into university-level research.

The event was well-attended by members of the public, academic staff, and industry representatives.

It also featured a prizegiving ceremony, recognising the most innovative Honours projects across the School of Applied Sciences. This year’s winners were:

Biomedical Sciences: Isaac Thomson - Synthesis of Gold-Coated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (Au-SPIONs) and Their Impact on Sperm Motility and Kinematic Parameters

Civil and Environmental Engineering: Andrew Elliot - For a study on the potential for shallow geothermal energy in Dundee

Food Sciences: Emma Mercy - Investigation of Processing of Alaria esculenta on Texture and Sensory Studies in a Cracker Model System
Forensic Science: Lorna Berend - Use of Common Powders for the Unconventional Development of Latent Footwear Marks
Psychology: Charissa Potts - For research on adolescents' gender stereotypes in interpersonal relationships, including the development of the Interpersonal Trait Gender Stereotype Scale
Sociology / Criminology: Ellie Perkins - Tonic Immobility in Survivors of Sexual Abuse, exploring its impact on victim credibility within the justice system and media
Sport and Exercise Science: Sarah Low - The effect of menstrual cycle phase on deadlift performance in resistance trained females aged 18-55.