Promote research & academic excellence

The inaugural Rhiannon Powell Science Bursary was launched in April 2018.

This year, the bursary gave three biological students the opportunity to attend the British Society of Parasitology (BSP) annual conference.

Coincidentally, it took place at Aberystwyth University, with the public launch at the Old College.

“When I heard that the BSP was holding the annual spring conference here in Aberystwyth, I looked in to attending straight away.” Rachel, one of the beneficiaries, explains.

“At the time, I could not justify spending that amount of money on a tight student budget. Then I heard that the Rhiannon Powell Science Research Bursary was available to cover the costs of the conference - I was over the moon when I applied and won it!

I had never been to a conference before, and I found it was great fun and really interesting. I had the chance to meet so many people, including the president of the BSP.

After the conference, I realised that I was not ready to leave education. I also just felt jealous that I would not be part of that research 'world' anymore.

Within a week or so I had applied and got a place to study an MRes (Master of Research) in Parasite Control at Aberystwyth University.

The bursary truly changed my life. I would just like to say a huge thank you to the family of Rhiannon Powell for the opportunity the Bursary gave me."