This year’s Open Lecture series concluded with Dr Robert McFarland from the Paediatric Mitochondrial Research Centre for a fascinating lecture on the work he does in the field of mitochondrial disease in children.
The audience of boys and parents were given an overview of the crucial role that mitochondria play in the human body and the implications for some of the most basic functions when things go wrong. Dr McFarland reviewed some of his current and past medical cases and the work which he has done to treat their conditions. He also reviewed the journey which his team had been on to promote the passing of legislation for ground-breaking DNA-level procedures for fertility treatment. There was time at the end for questions and advice to younger members of the audience who were eyeing up a possible future career in medicine. It was great to get this update on the world-leading research being conducted here in Newcastle, following on from a previous talk in 2015.
We look forward to welcoming you at the start of next academic year for more stimulating talks and lectures. If you are interested in delivering one of these lectures in the next series, or have a recommendation, please contact enquiries@newcastleschool.co.uk