From drugs found in the depths of the ocean that can help fight cancer to computer technology which can crack cryptic codes, hundreds of pupils are discovering how science can impact on real life at a series of Aberdeen University workshops.

Academics from the departments of chemistry and computing science will be taking their expertise to 19 schools. The workshops, aimed at S5-6, will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, web widgets and catalytic combustion.

Following an initial launch to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire schools, the workshops went to Edinburgh this week and there are plans for the initiative to be rolled out across the UK.

Lesley MacLennan: T 01224 272517

Jenifer Scott: T 01224 272522.