Illustration of two people kneeling with palms touching and their bodies made of little geometric shapes to represent cells

Illustration by Ellie Shipman

Letterbox Science

Using art to inspire discussions that explore our work in a way that is friendly, informal and accessible to everyone.

Illustration of someone shown upside down under a blanket and then the same person appearing to jump in the air with a superhero cape on. There are mitochondria weaving between the two figures.

Illustration by Ellie Shipman

What is Letterbox Science?

Letterbox Science is a project led by scientists Anna Klucnika and Eleanor McCartney (Ma lab) who worked with artist Ellie Shipman to design a suite of postcards that explore three of the ideas we explore in the labs: cells, DNA and mitochondria.

How does it work?

These postcards can be used as prompts to encourage discussion about the biology of our bodies, as well as creative responses such as artwork and writing. There is also the opportunity to let us know what you find interesting and where you think our scientists should be researching next!

Stack of Letterbox Science postcards showing illustrations of cells, DNA, mitochondria and Anna and Eleanor, the lead researchers
A hand holding up a book with a purple cover showing the Letterbox Science logo and the text "If I were a biologist...". Behind is a green wall with white shelves stacked with lab glassware.

Check out some of the responses

We ran a pilot project involving several primary schools who shared the postcards with their Key Stage 2 students (ages 7-11).

Click the link below to download the PDF version of the book and discover what these children thought the scientists should be investigating in our labs, and what they would do if they were to join The Gurdon Institute research team.

Get involved

Are you part of a school, community group or other organisation that may like to get involved with the project?

Click to download our Teacher’s Document and General Info Booklet for more information and ideas for how the resources could help get your group more involved with research in Cambridge.

Microscopy image showing a cell nucleus coloured pink and the mitochondria in blue
Illustration of scientists Anna (left) and Eleanor (right)

Get in touch

For more information, or to request a free package of materials as part of the project, contact us.