AMR scientists assemble...
Science and the Assembly/Gwyddoniaeth a’r Cynulliad
Tuesday 6 June marked the 13th occasion on which we have organised our Science and the Assembly event, where many people from both scientific and policymaking communities come together to support innovation in Wales.
The focus for the day was the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with talks from a number of expert speakers on this crucial topic; as well as from representatives of some of the main political parties.
Professor Sir John Holman, president of the Royal Society of Chemistry, explained that, while scientists and engineers have played a key role in people living healthier, longer and more prosperous lives than ever before, we can’t afford to be complacent.
Sir John says: "We face huge challenges, such as rising resistance to antibiotics. Every year AMR infections kill 50,000 people across Europe and the US alone.
Sir John's speech discussed the huge contributions science and engineering have made to our world and our Science and the Assembly event is recognition that science and engineering are essential for improving lives.
The Royal Society of Chemistry was founded in 1841 – then UK life expectancy was 40 yrs; a child born here today can expect to live twice as long
Professor Holman added: "AMR is putting at risk much of medical progress we take for granted – from performing caesareans safely, to administering chemotherapy, and it has huge implications for food security and the environment.
"Chemists have a big part to play in finding the solution, but we can’t do it alone. We need to come together with other scientists, with industry, and with people in government who can make the policy decisions we need to tackle this urgent issue."
Standing on the shoulders of giants
Sir John also paid tribute to Rhodri Morgan, former First Minister, who combined the role of Science Minister in Wales.
Sir John said: "Rhodri officially opened the first-ever Science and the Assembly event. Under the Labour-Plaid coalition he led, the first Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales was appointed.
"Wales now has a fantastic science and engineering base – if it is to build on these strong foundations, we must invest in the future.
"To build a thriving economy with interesting, well-paid jobs for people living in Wales, the key to this is investing in education and skills – we must nurture the scientists, engineers and technicians of tomorrow."
Innovation and inspiration
Among the speakers were Professor Eshwar Mahenthiralingam from the School of Biosciences at Cardiff University and Rachel McMullan from the Open University, pictured below.
Showcasing excellence in Welsh research
Also taking part in the exhibition (and giving great support on social media) were researchers from the University’s Cardiff Catalysis Institute who were on hand to demonstrate the research taking place in Cardiff to improve the understanding of catalysis, develop new catalytic processes with industry, and promote the use of catalysis as a sustainable 21st century technology.
The Cardiff University team have written their own account of the day and their hugely enthusiastic support for the event, which includes the excellent video below.