Our Programmes
Igniting future careers in Health & Science
The Catalyst Programme is your gateway to exploring careers in health and science if you’re aged 16 to 18. This immersive 2-day experience from the 10th–11th August is designed to give you hands-on insight into the sector, equip you with essential professional skills, and boost your confidence. Through interactive workshops, panels with biomedical professionals, and the chance to experience world-class research facilities, Catalyst helps you discover pathways that make careers in science tangible and achievable.
In Partnership with
Value Offering
Learn, connect, and flourish with like-minded students
Navigating your future in health or science can feel overwhelming – especially if you come from an underrepresented background. Catalyst provides structured support, interactive learning, and expert insight to help you build the confidence and networks needed to succeed. Engage in thought-provoking activities, connect with inspiring professionals, and gain the knowledge to make informed decisions about your next steps in education and your career.
What to expect
Skills to ignite your future
- Health & Science Career Exploration: Explore biology, chemistry, physics, medical, and pharmaceutical careers via workshops, panels, and real-world research exposure.
- Professional Insight: Gain direct access to world-class research facilities and hear from professionals about their career journeys and sector-specific challenges.
- Employability Skills: Develop skills like communication, networking, and confidence-building, helping you navigate academic and professional opportunities.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Selected students will receive structured mentoring sessions with professionals, providing tailored guidance for career and academic choices.
Impactful Workshops
Engage in hands-on workshops across health and science, careers, and personal development—all in one intensive day.
Insight Days
Visit leading UK research facilities and gain first-hand insight into what it’s like to work in health and or science.
Networking
Connect with health and science professionals, gain advice, and build relationships that can help guide your future career decisions.
Receive CV Support
Access Doceo’s CV review and Personal Statement guidance for free — designed to help you stand out in applications and future opportunities.
Apply Now!
How the Programme Works
With only 60 places available, Catalyst is highly competitive, so don’t wait. Apply early to secure your spot and seize the chance to explore real-world careers in science and healthcare, connect with inspiring scientists and professionals from across the country, and discover where your future in the field could take you.
Application process
Our straightforward three-stage process is designed to ensure every selected participant is ready to make the most of the programme.
Stage 1
Submit Your Application
Review the programme guide carefully, then complete and submit your application form before the deadline. Make sure to highlight your interest and motivation for exploring a future in science and healthcare.
Stage 2
Parental Consent
During the review process, we may require consent from a parent or guardian before confirming your participation. Where requested, this consent is a mandatory part of the application process.
Stage 3
Confirmation
Once our team has reviewed all submissions, successful applicants will receive a confirmation along with detailed information on how to attend and make the most of the day.
Application criteria
To apply and benefit fully from this opportunity, please ensure you meet the following criteria before submitting your application.
Who should apply
- Be between 16 and 18 years old at the time of the programme
- Be able to attend in person at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London
- Be motivated and eager to learn about science, research, and healthcare careers
- Be able to provide parental or guardian consent if requested during the application process
Programme Agenda
What you will be learning...
Explore what a career in the life sciences really looks like, from bench research to the fast-growing world of biotech. You’ll hear how curiosity about living systems turns into real scientific discovery and industry impact.
Discover the chemistry behind the things we use every day, from pharmaceuticals to new materials and green chemistry. You’ll see how chemists are helping to build a more sustainable future and where this path can take you.
Get a clear picture of the journey from A-levels to medical school and beyond, and follow the path of a medicine from drug discovery to dispensing. You’ll learn what clinical and pharmaceutical careers really involve and the many routes in.
Step into one of the most exciting frontiers in science, covering personalised medicine, genetic counselling, and gene-editing tools like CRISPR. You’ll learn how understanding our DNA is reshaping healthcare.
Learn how data, coding, and AI are driving modern scientific discovery, from bioinformatics to drug design and medical technology. You’ll see why some of the most in-demand careers now sit where science meets technology.
Understand how science shapes the health of whole populations and the future of our planet, from epidemiology and health policy to sustainability and climate science. You’ll explore careers focused on protecting people and the environment.
Hear honest career stories from scientists and healthcare professionals, then put your learning into action through a collaborative team challenge. You’ll sharpen your teamwork and presentation skills and pitch your ideas to a panel.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the Catalyst Programme? We've got you covered.
No, the programme is completely free for all selected students. All sessions, activities, and materials are provided at no cost to you or your family.
Catalyst 2026 will be held in-person at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London, on the Hammersmith Hospital Campus in West London. Full venue and arrival details will be shared with confirmed participants ahead of the day.
No prior knowledge is required. You don't need to be top of your class or have everything figured out. We're looking for curious, motivated students who are excited to explore science and healthcare, whatever your current grades or experience.
Yes, lunch and refreshments will be provided on both days. Just let us know in advance about any dietary requirements or allergies and we'll take care of it.
Just bring a notebook, a pen, and an open mind, ready to learn, engage, and make the most of the two days! We'll send a short joining guide beforehand with anything else you might need.
After applications close, our team will carefully review every submission and notify all applicants of the outcome by email. Successful applicants will receive a confirmation with all the further details they need to prepare for the programme.
Yes. We'll reimburse travel costs up to £50 per person once valid travel receipts are provided, so please keep hold of your tickets. Full details on how to claim will be shared with successful applicants ahead of the programme.
We work closely with our partners, including the Black Women in Science Network, to bring together inspiring scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across academia and industry. Speakers are chosen for their expertise and their ability to share relatable, real-world journeys that help students see themselves in these careers.
Absolutely! Catalyst is just the beginning. Participants are encouraged to stay engaged with the Doceo community through our events, programmes, workshops, and online platforms. We provide ongoing opportunities for learning, networking, and career development, ensuring continued support long after the programme ends.
