Female students studying one or more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects were invited to a packed day exploring future study and work opportunities in these fields at the University of Portsmouth (7 June).

Head of Maths, Simon King, who also runs the College’s Women in STEM Club said, “The university team organised a fantastic day. Civil Engineering kicked things off with a team task to build a Lego bridge that had to exceed the given dimensions and hold increasing amounts of weight.  Then it was on to the hydraulics lab and informative talks from Technology Faculty staff and students about the range of STEM-related courses the university has on offer.

“After lunch, we headed to Astrophysics to discover how astronomers and cosmologists identify the material composition of celestial bodies. It was there we learnt more about the university’s Space Mission Incubator – a hub for scientists, researchers and experts from a wide-range of industries to meet and collaborate on space mission design.

“We rounded off our day in the Materials Lab to investigate innovations such as smart materials and ‘memory’-type materials that can hold their shape until heated.”

A heartfelt thank you to everyone in Portsmouth University’s Outreach Team and the departmental staff involved in designing and delivering such a valuable, engaging experience for our students.