WHRI Work Experience Programme
The WHRI Work Experience Programme is for sixth form students who are interested in studying Medicine or a Biological/Biomedical related degree at university and are considering a career in a similar field.
This programme was established in 2017, benefitting approximately 370 young people to date. We aim to provide an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in laboratory and clinical research at one of Europe's largest pharmacological research institutes. In addition, students will have the opportunity to learn about alternative careers within government health-related initiatives and fundraising for healthcare and research.
“I liked the mix of practical and talk elements, and getting to meet lots of people with different specialities”
Programme highlights
- Hands-on practical experience in a working research laboratory
- Talks from world-leading basic scientists and clinical researchers
- Talks on the careers in allied health sciences
- Shadowing of current PhD and Post-doctoral researchers
- Learn about the running of clinical trials and interact with clinical trial administrators
- Demonstrations of ultrasound imaging of joints and the disease features of long-lasting inflammation of the hand joints
- Laboratory practicals on assessments on enzyme activity, and antigen antibody interaction
- Microscopic examination of human tissues
“The practical experiences we had were very insightful, including the ultrasound on the first day and the various practicals on day 2. These helped me understand the research behind treatment for rheumatoid arthritis”
Next steps
For: Year 12-13 Sixth form or college students
Date: 29-30 July 2026
Location: William Harvey Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ
GCSE's: Double or Triple Science (BB or above) and Mathematics (B or above)
A-levels: All applicants must be studying a Science or Maths subject at A-level (or equivalent)
WHRI Work Experience Programme - Application form
The application deadline is 23 June 2026 at 5.00 pm.
We will respond to all applicants by 5.00 pm on 10 July 2026. Due to the high volume of applications, we will only contact successful applicants.
For general queries please contact:
Mr Ade Alele
Email: a.alele@qmul.ac.uk
