
Aspiring Scientists Training Programme
Not just an ordinary work experience! The ASTP is designed to give A-level biology students a chance to experience what a career as a biologist entails, from bespoke workshops with experts in the sector, to networking opportunities with scientists and the chance to explore life at a world-renowned research university.

Online applications for ASTP 2023 are now closed!
If you have submitted an application for ASTP this year, you will hear back from the project team by 5th May.
New for 2023
The ASTP has expanded!
Due to the success of previous programmes run at the Gurdon Institute, this year we have tripled the number of students who will join us in Cambridge this July, as well as including four other Cambridge University research institutes in the programme.


Eligibility
This programme is for students in state (non-fee paying) schools, ages 16+ who are currently pursuing A-level/IB/Higher level (or equivalent) qualifications in biology and maths who are interested in higher education or a career in science.
Please see the Guidance Document for full eligibility information.
Due to limited availability, please note that spaces will be competitive and completing an application form does not guarantee placement.
Details
For one week, students will:
- spend afternoons in a lab each day, learning and practising research techniques
- attend four bespoke, interactive workshops with experts
- research a scientific topic or technique and create and deliver a presentation to peers and researchers
- meet and network with PhD students and other scientists to talk to them about their jobs and get advice about careers and educational opportunities
- explore Cambridge University, with the opportunity to ask questions and get advice from staff and students

Thank you to our funders and collaborators
ASTP will be expanded in 2023 due to generous funding from the Isaac Newton Trust Widening Participation and Induction Fund.
This funding has allowed the Gurdon Institute to collaborate with St Catharine’s College (programme lead), Pembroke College, the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, MRC-Mitochondrial Biology Unit and Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science.

Get in Touch
If you have any questions, please contact astp@caths.cam.ac.uk and a member of the project team will get back to you.
