Hello! :) I'm Ravleen, a 1st year Pharmacy student at UCL. In the last year, I was introduced to pharmaceutics: a scientific basis for the formulation and manufacture of safe and effective medicines. Even the most effective medicine doesn't work if the patient refuses to take it. A study found that 79% of children stated that the taste of medicine made them unwilling to take it. Moreover, children are commonly unable to swallow neutral tasting pills, which makes dosing them a challenge. For my research project, I explored the development of child-friendly, palatable formulations called orodispersible films using a method called electrospinning. This involved hands-on laboratory work to develop prototype formulations at the UCL School of Pharmacy and interviews with paediatric, oncology patients at Great Ormand Street Hospital to improve the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea & vomiting. Feel free to reach out.

A global community that connects engaged citizens, entrepreneurs and organizations to build an inclusive and sustainable society together. Through the re_action for impact programme, scholars take part in a six-week full-time summer experience with local partners to mobilise communities and deliver concrete actions on social and environmental challenges. Explore toolkits, videos and past scholar reflections: https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/make_sense-re_action? Country focus In Marseille, scholars can contribute to ageing well (mobility, accessibility, social bonds, co-living solutions with public institutions and field actors) and preserving sea biodiversity (supporting NGOs to reduce waste and plastics, mobilise volunteers, and drive behaviour change). You’ll co-design and pilot practical actions with local partners across city and coastal communities.

SOS Kinderdorf runs Making Impact Visible in Nepal. Scholars join a small media team to document programmes for children, young people and families. Over several weeks in summer, they plan and carry out field visits with SOS colleagues in locations such as Kathmandu, Itahari and Pokhara, capturing photos and short videos, gathering stories, and producing clear and ethical communications materials. Strong photography or video editing skills and fluent English are expected, and safeguarding standards apply. Discover the project details, timelines, tips and first-hand reflections in the LSN room.: https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/sos-kinderdorf?

Swara partners with women led enterprises and artisan communities to create income opportunities through ethical fashion and community based tourism. CraftHER is a six week leadership journey in Kerala where scholars learn alongside makers, co create designs, and reflect on community and craft with cross cultural learning. Visit the LSN room for activity posts, resources and programme updates. . Visit the LSN room for activity posts, resources and programme updates https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/swara?

For over 20 years, The Kasiisi Project has advanced the conservation of Uganda's Kibale National Park by supporting and educating communities to protect it. Our Ugandan partner, the Kibale Forest Schools' Programme, handles our on-the-ground operations to ensure efficient and impactful program delivery. The Kasiisi Project supports The Kibale Forest Schools' Program through leadership,  funding, science, advocacy and outreach. Please note that the project is not taking place in summer 2026, and it hopes to be back in 2027. If you are planning your LiA for 2027, we encourage you to explore their LSN room: https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/the-kasiisi-project  

Timothy Smith Network empowers young people and communities in Boston through technology education. Each summer the Boston Design Academy brings together Laidlaw Scholars and local high school students for a six week programme that introduces real world design and technology through project based learning and mentorship. Scholars have supported tracks such as Digital Design Intensive, Elevating Agricultural Technology and Tech Your Health, and have taught creative tools including game design while helping to bridge the digital divide. Explore the LSN room for recent posts, videos and materials https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/timothy-smith-network?

Akiba, which means heritage in the dialect of the Northern Sakalava, is a Malagasy association whose objective is to help the inhabitants of the island of Nosy Komba have access to a decent life, while preserving their environment. Installed in the heart of the tropical forest, we include in our approach all the elements necessary for the sustainable development of the island. Akiba helps people to live with dignity from their work by offering them other production opportunities and allowing them to value their efforts. It instructs, trains and transmits knowledge to give everyone the keys to apprehend their world and build a better future together. It Enhances Malagasy heritage to make the most of a generous nature and local know-how, rich in history and experiences. It respects, develops and protects natural resources in an environment recognized for its endemicity, in accordance with the principles of agroforestry and integrated systems. *Note: all scholars who apply to work with Akiba must have have some ability to speak French

I’m a first-year Aerospace Engineering student at the University of Leeds and a proud 2025 Laidlaw Scholar. I’m actively involved with the Leeds University Rocketry Association (LURA), where I work as a Recovery Engineer and Operations Coordinator. Outside of academics, I’m passionate about adventure and personal growth - I’m currently training for my solo skydiving licence, I practice kickboxing, and I’m always up for a thrill. I’m a people person who loves connecting with others, learning new things, and making the most of every opportunity. My research project is 'Development of High-fidelity Underwater Recording system for Capturing Coral Soundscape'.

Hi! I’m Sophie Kleina, a Psychological and Behavioural Sciences student at the University of Cambridge. I’m passionate about language learning and preservation, which is why my Laidlaw research project focuses on the Kashubian language- a regional and Indigenous language of northern Poland, and a heritage I’m proud to be part of. My academic interests span sociology, linguistics, psychology, and education, and I’m especially drawn to work that supports cultural diversity, educational access, and meaningful social change. I care deeply about doing work that helps people, strengthens communities, and protects the richness of human language and identity. I’m always eager to learn from others and collaborate on projects that make a difference- feel free to connect!

Hello! I am a penultimate year French and Politics student at the University of Leeds with the drive and tenacity to effect positive change on a global scale. My research focuses on identifying West African resistance fighters in the Second World War. I have also developed a keen interest in the Francophone world, French philosophy and Post-colonial Feminist security studies.

Hi! I'm Victor Gachoki, an enthusiast in the world of innovative technology. I study Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering and I'm currently in my first year. I love to read, blog and play rugby. Being a Laidlaw Scholar means the world to me, and I can't wait to grasp every inch of experience through both the research and leadership program.

I've been looking after Research Scholars in the Arts and Humanities since 2008, and have been involved with the Laidlaw Network since it was established.  I'm passionate about increasing diversity and making opportunities available to more. I'm a proud Loiner (someone from Leeds) and particularly love to work with students to engage with the city and the amazing cultural and creative industries that we have here. 

Hi! I am studying chemistry at The University of Leeds, I am an Undergraduate Scholar doing a research project titled 'The Upper Atmosphere of Mars'.

Hi! I'm Maria and I am a current undergraduate scholar from the University of Leeds. I study Law and I aspire to be a corporate solicitor. 

I am a Chartered Occupational Psychologist and the lead for the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme at The University of York.  Prior to joining the University of York, my career was in policing focusing on selection and assessment, leadership development, organisation change and culture, and diversity, equality and inclusion.  I completed my BSc Psychology course at The University of Manchester and went straight on to complete my MSc Occupational Psychology course at Northumbria University. I then completed the Qualification in Occupational Psychology (QOccPsych) with the British Psychological Society (BPS) to become a chartered Occupational Psychologist.