In 2025, the Genetics Society (GenSoc) funded the I’m a Scientist (IAS) project to engage students with scientists working in genetics and biology. This report is a summary of the activity and interactions of GenSoc-funded participants during 2025.
Summary:
- 37 GenSoc-funded participants were given access, and 19 actively took part in 2025
- GenSoc-funded participants took part in 73 Chats
- We estimate that 2,386 students from 73 schools took part in Chats with GenSoc-funded participants
- 81% of schools in Chats with GenSoc-funded participants were priority schools
- Taking part has a positive impact on scientists
- 70% reported increased skills communicating with lay audiences
- 67% reported increased confidence in, and 63% enthusiasm for communicating with lay audiences
- 68% reported increased interest in future public engagement activities
- 96% of scientists and 94% of teachers would recommend the activity
- Taking part supports students’ science capital and provides opportunities for whole-class engagement
“I love the I’m a… Programme. It’s so engaging and you get some really interesting questions from the students that sometimes make me question how I look at things too.” – Alana, Scientist
“…having a range of professionals with different jobs and different backgrounds for students to chat to is so valuable. The format makes it easy for any student no matter how quiet to ask questions.” – Maria, Teacher
