Jane Thorning
Profiles

Jane Thorning

Senior Technician

School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences (Faculty of Science and Engineering)

Biography

Biography

I work as a Senior Technician managing the Faculty of Science and Engineering LABplus Facility. My role is to support STEM teaching and learning by developing experiential resources for undergraduate students. Each resource produced for LABplus is designed to encourage student centered learning that extends beyond the timetabled curriculum. I also provide support for students using the facility, technical assistance with laboratory skills and I provide placement and volunteering opportunities. 

In addition to my core role, I am passionate about science communication and public engagement. I design and deliver workshops promoting STEM subjects and careers to visiting school and community groups. I act as an Employer Mentor for students considering technical careers and I co-ordinate the Faculty of Science and Engineering work experience programme.

Professional membership

Member of the Institute of Science and Technology 


Associate Fellow Higher Education Academy 

Member of the BIG STEM Communicators Network

Teaching

Teaching

Teaching interests

I teach science communication skills and outreach workshops on the following modules:


Environmental Science 
ENVS2004 Environmental Issues and Communication 

Biological Sciences/Conservation Biology
BIOL_X Advanced Skills and Concepts


Research

Research

Research interests

Science communication and public engagement

Experiential learning
Inclusive science education 

Research projects
2017: HEFCE Catalyst Fund: Embedding and sustaining inclusive STEM practices (Dr Alison Stokes, Plymouth University Project Lead).