On Wednesday 3rd March, pupils went to meet Sir Alec Jeffreys, a British geneticist who developed techniques for DNA fingerprinting and profiling.   These techniques are now used worldwide in forensic science to assist police detective work and to resolve paternity and immigration disputes.  During the lecture Sir Alec explained when he had his ‘Eureka moment’ in the laboratory and how it took a while to appreciate the full extent of his DNA discovery.  Sir Alec told pupils to consider taking Biology or Chemistry at degree level as those who wanted to be future SOCOs stood a much better chance, than if they chose to study forensic science. 

Following extended time for questions and answers, Sir Alec was pushed to give even more of his time to debate with some very keen students who found the lecture and information fascinating!  It was apparent that meeting someone of Sir Alec Jeffrey’s expertise, truly made for one of the best opportunities for knowledge.  Mrs Davies told pupils that, ”it is very rare to meet someone with the same scientific stature as Sir Alec Jeffreys and yet who remains so humble in his knowledge, having created something that can be used for good across the world, now and for future generations to come.”