About 250 schoolchildren became scientists for the day at Aberdeen University last week.

The S6 biology pupils took part in practical laboratory sessions. They “chopped up” the genome of a virus using the same technologies that scientists use to clone genes. There was a lecture on genetics and medicine using voting technology similar to that used on quiz show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? And there was advice on degree courses.

This is the third year the university has staged these workshops, which it is hoped will encourage more students to consider careers in science. The pupils came from 26 schools in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highland.