LCM Call 2

In Spring 2024, Systems Biology Ireland at UCD launched Let’s Chat Medicine (LCM), a new public engagement and involvement (PEI) initiative in the health-related research area, working in collaboration with (opens in a new window)Barretstown, CanTeen Ireland, Genomic Data Infrastructure Ireland and the Young Person's Advisory Group at the National Children's Cancer Service. The overall objective of the LCM programme is to bring young members of the public (ages 15 - 18 years old) together with STEM researchers, artists and a broad spectrum of professionals to work inclusively and in partnership towards a common goal of enhancing public understanding of personalised medicine.

This year's Let's Chat Medicine programme will again take place over 5 days -June 2 - 6, 2025. The first two days of the initiative will take place at UCD, where participants will take part in structured workshops related to this year's theme of Personalised Medicine.The workshops will provide ample opportunity for engagement with researchers and will include ice-breaker activities, lab tours and focus groups. The participants will then spend three days on the Barretstown campus working with researchers, artists and experienced science communicators to co-create a portfolio of accessible multi-media content covering what they’ve learned, which will be shared on various public and social media platforms.

Participants of Let's Chat Medicine 2025 will not only learn about the science behind personalised medicine, but will also gain insight into the many potential careers available through their extensive interactions with professionals in the research, teaching/learning, education and public engagement, science communications, art and charity/non-profit spaces. It is hoped participants will leave the programme with a better understanding of how to talk about personalised medicine and communicate the ideas behind the science on a wider level. They will also receive a letter of programme completion which may open the door to future opportunities.

Who can apply?
Anyone between the ages of 15 - 18 years old can apply. We are looking for people with an interest in science and/or medicine and art.

How to apply:
Fill out the linked (opens in a new window)Google form to give us a bit of background information on yourself including your contact details, your parent/guardian contact details and 100 words on why you want to take part in Let's Chat Medicine 2025. If you have any issues with the form, just email us at (opens in a new window)lcm@ucd.ie to let us know.

The deadline to apply is 12pm (midday), Tuesday 18th March.