Eight students from the School of Life Sciences recently went on an academic field trip to Basel, Switzerland, funded by the Quintin Hogg Trust (QHT). The trip, led by Dr Joan Liu, Senior Lecturer in Cellular Pathology and Dr Adele McCormick, Reader in Molecular Virology, provided students with exclusive access to some of the world’s leading scientific research and pharmaceutical institutions.
Students attended the international Drug Information Association (DIA) Europe 2025 conference over a course of three days, where discussions centred on sustainability, innovation and collaboration in healthcare. The event brought together key stakeholders from regulatory bodies, academia and industry, offering students the opportunity to gain insights into how these sectors work together to drive medical advancements and improve patient outcomes. Representatives from organisations such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and AstraZeneca engaged with students, broadening their understanding of global pharmaceutical regulations and practices.
Beyond the conference, students visited some of Basel’s leading scientific and academic institutions. At the Roche headquarters, they gained an in-depth understanding of the company’s pioneering drug development efforts, its commitment to sustainability and the challenges faced in bringing new treatments to the market. During this conference, a session on career development provided students with CV and job application advice as well as firsthand accounts of working in the pharmaceutical industry.
A visit to the Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research introduced students to cutting-edge microscopy techniques at the Cryo-EM Center and Neurobiology Labs, where they explored ongoing research in computational biology. The visit provided insight into the evolving role of AI in scientific research and featured discussions on current PhD projects. Additionally, at the Novartis Pavilion’s exhibition titled Wonders of Medicine, students experienced an interactive showcase of medical advancements that bridged the past, present and future of healthcare.
Students also had the opportunity to meet Westminster alumna Lisa Kistner, who graduated in Public Relations MA in 2021 and is now a project manager at Basel-based public relations firm comm.versa GmbH. She shared insights into working in Switzerland, offering guidance on career paths in marketing and communications within the pharmaceutical sector.
The trip was not only an academic and professional learning experience but also a cultural immersion. Students explored Basel’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere, including its annual carnival, where the sounds of drums and flutes echoed through the city. The Anatomical Museum visit provided an insight into the history of anatomy through real specimens.
Reflecting on the experience, students expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity. Yacoub Daskalos, Biochemistry BSc Honours student, said: “This trip was an eye-opening experience, offering us invaluable insights into cutting-edge advancements and the vibrant culture of Basel. A heartfelt thank you to Dr Joan Liu and Dr Adele McCormick for guiding us on this special trip, and to the University of Westminster for making it all possible. I'm also grateful to the institutions that hosted us and shared their knowledge and passion for science.”
Wiktoria Zielinska, another Biochemistry BSc Honours student, added: “This trip was not only insightful in terms of knowledge and career awareness but also personally enriching. I formed wonderful connections and unforgettable memories. A massive thank you to all of our guides for the warm welcome and sharing valuable knowledge, and to our amazing trip leaders for making this all possible.”
Dr Joan Liu said: “This field trip is an enriching learning experience for our students, and it offers a valuable opportunity to enhance their employability and broaden their perspectives. It has been wonderful to see them engage with professionals and experts from academic, industrial and government agencies to discuss current global issues concerning drug discovery and sustainability in healthcare.”
Dr Adele McCormick added: “The QHT-funded field trip to Basel to attend the DIA 2025 conference, is such a fantastic experience and opportunity for the students to learn about sustainability, innovation and drug discovery in a healthcare setting as well as network with fellow scientists and regulatory bodies. By visiting the University of Basel, Friedrich Miescher Institute and Roche, the students gained an insight into research undertaken both in academia and industry as a possible future career.”
This academic trip directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about the School of Life Sciences at the University.
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