TWO A-Level chemistry students spent part of their summer holidays taking part in a research scheme that aims to improve treatment for diabetics.

Shaden Tuma and Aynnie Fatima Bari, who study at the Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, took part in the six-week Nuffield Bursary Scheme over the summer.

They were delighted to be selected for the highly competitive scheme which provides funded placements for A Level students to work with researchers, PhD students and undergraduates.

Shaden and Aynnie took part in the Pharmaceutics Dosage Form and Design Project at the University of Sunderland which aims to improve the treatment of diabetic patients.

Shaden, who hopes to go on to study pharmacy at either Sunderland or Cardiff university, said: ‘I thoroughly enjoyed working in the laboratory as it allowed me to relate my college studies to the clinical side of science.

“I gained lab skills, scientific knowledge and confidence in working with harmful chemicals and relished working with others who share my aspirations.

“I gained a real insight into research and university life and recommend the scheme to others.”