The Audit of Practical Work undertaken by undergraduate bioscience students across the UK Higher Education sector

This was completed over 2013 and 2014 through collaboration of the Biochemical Society, Society of Biology, the Higher Education Academy and Heads of University Biosciences (HUBS).

The audit findings suggest that although staff are generally happy with the level of practical work available, the majority have grave concerns that any further erosion of resources would have significant effects on the UK Biosciences graduate skills base. Also highlighted was a lack of school preparation for higher education practical work. Furthermore, there is concern that staff who invest time in teaching activities and laboratory provision potentially experience detrimental effects on their research and hence promotion prospects.

It is therefore important that the balance between teaching and research within HE is addressed, whilst funding for practical resources is maintained at current levels.

Download a pdf of the full report.