A unique science experience in the heart of Whitechapel (East London) recently celebrated its first birthday. Centre of the Cell is a one-of-a-kind science centre located within the working biomedical research labs of the Blizard Institute at The Queen Mary University of London. It is the brainchild of Professor Fran Balkwill, active cancer researcher and winner of the 2005 Royal Society Michael Faraday Prize
(see the webcast of Dr. Balkwill’s lecture “A Silent Killer” where she discusses how cancer scientists can help patients and their families, as well as inspire young people to take up careers in this exciting area of science).

The goal of the centre is to educate school-age children about the mysteries of the cell in an environment that brings science to life.

The centre itself is made out of glass in the shape of a blastocyte and allows visitors to watch scientists working in the labs below. There are a multitude of interactive exhibits and plenty of opportunities for everyone to be inspired.

For a great review of the centre, see the Cancer Research UK website.