Shakil Khan is a Higher Scientific Officer in the Induced Proximity Therapeutics Group (Centre for Protein Degradation). This is what he shared about his experience of doing public engagement.
"One of the most powerful things I’ve taken from public engagement is the way it reconnects me with why I do this work.
In the lab, it’s easy to become immersed in the fine details — experiments, protocols, data analysis. But when I step outside that environment and interact with people who are genuinely curious about science, it gives me this incredible clarity. Suddenly, I’m not just looking at cells or proteins — I’m seeing how our research sits in the real world, how it inspires others, and how it might shape someone’s future.
I still think about the moment during a DNA extraction activity with a group of kids, when one of them watched the DNA precipitate and asked, “Is this what makes us?”
It was such a simple question, but it hit me hard. That kind of curiosity — that wonder — is exactly what science is all about.
Public engagement has become a kind of anchor for me. It reminds me that the work we do here at the ICR is deeply human — it’s about lives, futures, possibilities. And every time I share our work with someone outside the lab, I’m reminded that I’m not just running experiments — I’m part of something bigger.
Most recently, I hosted a student from Wallington High School for Girls and gave her a glimpse into life as a researcher. I’ve also helped organise science activities for younger children, creating space for them to ask questions and explore science in a hands-on, fun way. These experiences not only help build public understanding — they also recharge me. They’ve made me feel more connected to the ICR, and more motivated in my day-to-day work.
If you’re thinking about getting involved in science outreach, my advice is simple: say yes. You don’t need to have a perfect talk or know all the answers — your passion and presence are what matter. And I promise, the perspective you’ll gain from it will make your work feel more meaningful than ever."
