Opening Doors to Science in Aberdeen

Hazel Allardyce and Ashley Donald at their research stand with microscope showing a healthy human spinal cord and a MND spinal cord where the motor neurons are lost. Models of the brain and spinal to show what is affected in MND. Playdoh brains with beads so children could interact, a model showing how the message from the brain/spinal cord and muscles is disturbed in MND made of 3 tubes, 1 hollow, 1 partly filled, 1 fully filled , using marbles to travel down the tubes or not in the 3rd MND model

Sept 2025: Inspiring curiosity and connection through science at Aberdeen’s Doors Open Day.

On the 6th of September, the Institute of Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen threw open its doors for Doors Open Day, welcoming over 260 visitors to explore the world of cutting-edge research.

Dr Hazel Allardyce, from the Euan MacDonald Centre and the Parson Lab at the University of Aberdeen, together with MSci student Ashley Donald, brought the science of motor neuron disease (MND) to life. Through hands-on activities and friendly conversations, visitors of all ages discovered how researchers are working to understand MND and explore new possibilities for treatment.

The stand sparked curiosity, inspired questions, and highlighted how science can change lives. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with the community, raise awareness of MND, and share a message of hope for the future.

Relevant links

Dr Hazel Allardyce's profile, Aberdeen University (external website)

Prof Simon Parson's profile

Doors Open Days, Institute of Medical Sciences, Aberdeen (external website)

Photograph by kind permission of Hazel Allardyce and Ashley Donald

 

This article was published on: Friday, September 26, 2025
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