Understanding environmental issues was Finn’s motivation for joining our HND programme
We asked our students to tell us about themselves and their studies. In this case study, HND student Finn Weddle explains he is looking to combine his language skills with his biotechnology training to support farmers with environmental improvement all around the world.
Why did you decide to study this course?
There are so many reasons why I chose to study the HND Biotech in Glasgow. The COVID pandemic had a large part to play; it inspired me to become more scientifically literate in order to have a better understanding of modern medicine and scientific information so that I could confidently refute misinformation. As an environmentalist, I also began to feel that a solid grasp of science and industry would give me a better understanding of environmental issues, as well as an opportunity to come up with solutions to the sustainable development challenges of our day.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I have a great passion for environmental improvement. I am particularly interested in soil conservation, sustainable land management and sustainable resource use. I have previously studied French and Arabic at university, and I’ve conducted research into compost and anaerobic digestion in Scotland, so my ambition is to one day combine my unique experiences into a globe-trotting adventure of environmental improvement through supporting farmers with science.
What excites you about your course?
The IBioIC HND Biotech is fantastic because it covers such a broad scope of science. Although I came with my ‘composter’ hat on, I have already had my eyes open to the wide range of fields I could apply my skills and interests to. From cell tissue cultures to medical biochemistry, every day I feel like I have a better understanding of the world around me and the world of industrial science.
Where/what do you think the next innovation in IB will be?
Since beginning my studies into industrial biotechnology, I have begun listening to a wide range of science podcasts which keep me (somewhat!) up to date with the wide array of innovation constantly coming from the science sector. It’s therefore very hard to narrow down what I think will be ‘next’, but I think more research into the proposed link between viral antibodies and degenerative/autoimmune conditions e.g., Herpes and Alzheimer’s, is going to be absolutely crucial given the alarming rise in the rate of chronic illness amongst people of all ages, and could lead to medical breakthroughs that completely redefine how we understand immunology.
What is an interesting fact about you / what do you enjoy doing away from your studies?
I am a big nerd for vermiculture, or worm farming. I rent out a garage which is full of worm-related experiments, where they receive a diet of digestate fibre and ground eggshells. Earthworms, of which composting worms are just one sub-group, are a keystone species of the soil world just like wolves, beavers and elephants are keystone species of ‘big’ ecology. They are fascinating, complex creatures which bring so much richness to the soil – I think all of science could probably be taught through the lens of a worm!! My worm garage is also my happy place, and has helped me through many difficult periods of mental health, so I’m proud to say that worms – more than most things - make me happy!