Staffordshire University’s biological science students have just returned from Finland’s picturesque city of Tampere – following the indulgence of some great Finnish cuisine, amazing views across lake Pyhäjärvi, and a VERY hot sauna. Aside from Tampere’s strong devotion to art and conserving the natural environment, Tampere is home to vast biological facilities; focusing on the advancement of science and the attainment of a sustainable future. After touring TAMK’s research facilities it is no surprise the university is considered one of the largest multidisciplinary universities in Finland – offering students a vast range of opportunities.
The visit began with an introductory talk from Kirsi Mansikkamäki (head of Biomedical Laboratory Science at TAMK) and Eeva Liikanen (principal lecturer) who described the learning opportunities at TAMK (some of which are also available to Staffordshire University students via the Erasmus scheme) and the curriculum of the Biomedical Laboratory Science degree. We were all surprised at the many similarities and differences between Staffordshire and TAMK – and quite jealous when we discovered Finnish students’ study for free!
Staffordshire students were then introduced to some of TAMK’s level 5 Biomedical Laboratory Science students who were very welcoming and keen to show us around – luckily, they all spoke perfect English, considering our terrible attempts to speak Finnish! We were also privileged with the opportunity to watch TAMK students present their final year projects. It was outstanding to witness the professionalism of TAMK students – many of whom have made links with research organisations such as ‘Fimlab’ and ‘Tampere University Hospital’ – for instance, one group is researching the use of an immunoassay to identify the presence of disease related toxins, while another group is working with their local hospital to produce a children’s book that explains blood testing. 
Once work was done for the day and everyone had gotten to know one another, the group enjoyed a stylish wine and dine across lake Pyhäjärvi; with surreal views all the way.
To make the trip even more exciting, Staffordshire University students were able to explore the cutting-edge facilities at TAMK’s campus and biomedical laboratory with Eeva and Laboratory Chief Anja Rovio. Equipped to tackle many of the problems faced worldwide in the 21st century, the research facilities housed everything from chemical analysis equipment, cell culture labs (including mass cryo-storage), to a marine department exploring the mechanisms of immunological response in zebra fish. It was a biologist’s dream come true, we never wanted to leave!
Now it’s all over we cannot wait to see the Finnish students again when they visit us in the new academic year, and hope that Staffordshire University continues to provide students with the chance to develop as international biologists. The trip has been an experience of a lifetime for everyone involved, we’ve made new friends, increased our passion for science, and uncovered a whole new world of opportunity!
Written by Max Clarkson
Level 5, BSc Hons Pharmaceutical Science