A University of Bath PhD student is giving the first of a new series of public lectures on research at the Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution (BRLSI) on Thursday 4 February.
Stephen Bush will talk about an area of genetics that could offer scientists new insight into inherited diseases.
He will explain his work on DNA sequences known as transposable elements, in a talk entitled The Ecology of Jumping Genes: exploring the dynamics of DNA parasites.
Transposable elements are short sequences of DNA that make copies of themselves and insert themselves into other genes, stopping them from working properly.
Stephen said: “The DNA sequences appear to serve no purpose other than to self-replicate themselves in vast numbers. Examining how they sabotage their genetic rivals will reveal more about their purpose and their possible uses in understanding disease.”
The new series of lectures, called Speaking of Research, will run at the BRLSI during 2010, given by research students and staff from the University.
The launch lecture will begin with an informal drinks reception at 7pm, with an introduction by the University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Professor Jane Millar.
The lecture starts at 7.30pm. Admission on the door is £4, or £2 for students/BRLSI members.
BRLSI is a Bath-based educational charity committed to providing public discussions and exhibitions on the arts and the sciences.
For more information please contact Tim Stoneman at the University on 01225 385184 or email postgrads@bath.ac.uk.