The IiSGM opens its doors to fourth-year compulsory secondary education students to foster scientific vocations
Students have been able to gain practical insight into the biomedical research environment by becoming part of the day-to-day work of several research groups
The Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute (IiSGM) has welcomed students from secondary schools and colleges across the Community of Madrid as part of the 4th ESO+Company Programme. As part of these placements, the young people were able to follow a training itinerary at the centre, where they gained first-hand insight into the day-to-day work of various healthcare professions.
The students visited various hospital services and units in order to make a more informed choice about the path to follow in their studies and make decisions about their professional future. In this way, they gained a deeper understanding of their duties and working dynamics, asking questions and taking part in activities that enabled them to identify the importance of different processes in people's health.
Similarly, the students were able to gain practical insight into the field of biomedical research by taking part in activities adapted to different laboratories and units at the IiSGM.
They therefore learned first-hand how cells are obtained and analysed in advanced therapies and about the manufacturing processes for cell therapy medicines. They also explored areas such as haematological genetics, gaining an understanding of the role of DNA and chromosomes in the development of cancer and their application in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, and learned about renal pathophysiology.
The experience also included a multidisciplinary approach to other key areas of research, such as mental health, immunology, and digestive and infectious diseases. They were also able to observe the impact of technological innovation on medicine through units such as the hospital's 3D printing unit.
The students also worked with clinical and neuropsychological tools, learned about laboratory techniques applied to the study of genes and proteins, and discovered how research studies are designed, from their initial stages through to their application in clinical practice.
Healthcare teaching and guidance
The Directorate-General for Secondary Education, Vocational Training and Special Education, in collaboration with the five Territorial Area Directorates, runs this programme, launched by the Regional Ministry of Education, Science and Universities of the Community of Madrid. As part of its firm commitment to teaching and society, Gregorio Marañón has taken part in its various editions, bringing the hospital closer to future healthcare and research professionals.
This programme seeks to provide students with information and real-life experiences in companies in sectors of interest to them, such as healthcare, so that they can observe how they carry out their work and even take part in it. The idea is to bring the education system and the world of work closer together in a practical way, enabling many young people to discover their vocation in healthcare professions, research, innovation and technology applied to health, among other fields.
These educational placements form part of the objectives of corporate social responsibility, which foster all their professionals' commitment to society, as well as the practice of activities that help to raise awareness of the work carried out, both in terms of patient care and in the areas of research and innovation.
Related links
