Biomedical Science Excellence Scholarship

Thanks to generous support from donors and funding from the University of Derby’s School of Science, the Biomedical Science Excellence Scholarship was launched in autumn 2024 and has been awarded to its first two students.  

The scholarship was established to honour the memory of loved ones lost to cancer. It provides financial support to MSc Biomedical Science students, with a preference for those focusing on cancer research and treatments. This initiative was led by Mandip Sidhu, a University of Derby Law alumna, who, alongside a group of donors (including friends, family and professional contacts), came together to make a meaningful difference. 

The scholarship reflects the passion for learning and student support shared by those it commemorates. Today, it stands as a powerful legacy, fostering education, perseverance and the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs. 

Mandip Sidhu shares her tribute:

“I would like to honour their memory by reflecting on their words: ‘All we have is the here and now, so we should experience all that life has to offer, help others and enjoy life to the fullest.' We hope their perpetual legacy will inspire future generations, and enrich the lives of many others, with the overall aim of providing an innovative creative approach to global health and to improving life expectancy, around the world.” 

Empowering students to drive medical advancements

By alleviating financial burdens, the Biomedical Science Excellence Scholarship enables students to focus on their studies and research, helping them to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. More than just a financial aid, this scholarship is an investment in the future of critical advancements in cancer treatment and biomedical science. 

For student recipients Divine Alimasunya and Nneoma Michael, the scholarship is transformative: a source of motivation and opportunity. 

“Being selected for the 2024-25 Biomedical Science Scholarship means a lot to me, as it not only eases the financial burden of my studies, but also motivates me to work harder to contribute to the improvement of global healthcare. I truly appreciate the donors who made this opportunity possible.” - Divine Alimasunya

A lasting impact

The Biomedical Science Excellence Scholarship is making a tangible difference, helping students to pursue their research ambitions while honouring the legacy of those lost to cancer. By supporting this scholarship, donors are investing in the future of biomedical science and empowering students to make life-changing contributions to global healthcare. 

“In my language I would say “Onye Ka m bụ?” this means "Who am I?" I feel incredibly privileged to have been selected for this scholarship. It greatly inspires me to pursue my ambition of making a significant contribution to cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment. The donors' goal to improve global health is truly commendable, and I am eager and proud to play my part in helping to make this vision a reality.” - Nneoma Michael

Get in touch

If you are interested in supporting scholarships at the University of Derby, please contact the Development team at development@derby.ac.uk.  

The donors had the opportunity to visit the University to meet Divine and Nneoma, connect with faculty members and tour the Bioscience SuperLab.