Creative Sparks
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Hannah Johnston
I never thought a Nuffield Bursary could present so many opportunities. Since researching the enzymatic properties of carrots at AstraZeneca last summer, I’ve had many surprises. Firstly, earning a place at the National Science competition in London was an achievement, but to get to the final (and then become runner up Young Scientist of the Year) was an unexpected bonus! This offered many fantastic experiences; meeting Prince Andrew, touring 10 Downing Street and meeting inspirational judges to name a few. I really believe my work set me apart from other Oxford applicants and was the deciding factor of my offer. To be able to continue this work for Ignite! means, regardless of any rewards, that I can experience the joy of having an idea and then being able to follow it through and put it to the test. You learn about the process in school, how famous scientists had insights and then had the dedication to follow them through and test their hypotheses but you never dream that one day it will be you doing that. It is genuinely exciting.
