School of Infection & Immunity

Twenty-three final-year Life Sciences students recently completed a 20-credit intensive two-week course co-led by an academic from the School of Infection & Immunity.

Now in its fifth year, Business in the Biosciences is directed by Sii's Dr Laura McCaughey and Dr Anna McGregor from the School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine. 

The course brings together students from across the Life Sciences to develop entrepreneurship knowledge, employability skills and professional confidence.

Delivered from 1000—1400 each day over two consecutive weeks, the course differs significantly from traditional university teaching.

Students work in teams to develop business ideas, pitch solutions, solve real-world challenges and engage with guest speakers from across the University and beyond.

Through sessions with colleagues working in innovation, intellectual property, commercialisation and knowledge exchange, alongside alumni, entrepreneurs and industry professionals, students gain insight into career paths that are often less visible within traditional degree programmes.

The course also highlights the entrepreneurial side of science and the journey from research discovery to real-world impact.

Student feedback reported increased confidence in public speaking, teamwork and leadership, as well as identifying that professional networks were formed during the course.

One of the most beneficial outcomes was the strong sense of community that developed within the cohort. Spending ten full days learning together allows students to form close connections, feel comfortable taking risks, and step outside their comfort zones.

Microbiology student Neaky Sahafi reflected on an unexpected benefit of the intensive format: "What I didn't expect was to meet some fantastic people and make some friendships that I will definitely never forget.

"Our class instantly became close and, as a whole, we uplifted each other, teased each other and, ultimately, learnt from each other."

The success of the course also highlights wider lessons for teaching practice. Dedicated time for collaborative learning, authentic workplace-style activities and sustained interaction between students and staff can help foster a stronger sense of belonging, increase engagement and create opportunities for students to develop confidence alongside academic knowledge.

While few courses can adopt a fully intensive format, elements such as interdisciplinary teamworking, regular opportunities for reflection and exposure to diverse career pathways can be readily incorporated into teaching across schools.

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First published: 20 October 2026