The University of Cumbria is expanding its team that provides new and inspiring science opportunities for children and young people across the county.

The latest addition is Chloe Wood, a new graduate ambassador who is working with the university’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) outreach team.

She joins co-ordinator and senior lecturer Nigel Smith and outreach academic lead Caroline Sharples.

They develop, organise and promote interesting and exciting events and activities that aim to encourage youngsters to take up science and related subjects such as technology, engineering and maths.

Originally from East Yorkshire, Chloe is a graduate of the university’s animal conservation science course.

Her experience includes working as a field technician in Canada monitoring black and grizzly bear populations.

Chloe said: “Studying my degree has opened opportunities up to me to learn about research and science as a career.

“I hope to intrigue prospective students who maybe haven’t thought of studying science in Cumbria.

“Science fields are advancing constantly and I think this is an amazing time to be working in STEM.”

The STEM Outreach team works with schools and colleges across Cumbria, promoting the opportunities available at the university whilst also demonstrating to youngsters how science and related subjects can be applied.

Caroline Sharples, the university’s academic lead for STEM outreach, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have Chloe on board as we continue to develop our programme of science outreach at the university.

“She brings with her some really exciting experiences and ideas and I think students will be very interested to meet her and find out more about how studying science in Cumbria can take you to some pretty incredible places.”

Last month the STEM Outreach team was involved in launching the FIRST LEGO League into 10 schools in Carlisle and Eden.

The move now ensures that all areas of Cumbria are taking part in the international competition.

The university’s campus on Fusehill Street has also hosted two key school science festivals this year – the Festival of Biology, held in conjunction with the Royal Society of Biology; and the Festival of Chemistry, held in partnership with the Salters’ Institute and the Royal Society of Chemistry.

They will be taking place again in 2020.

Working with partners this year, the university will be introducing a national engineering scheme for primary and secondary school pupils to the county.