A UNIVERSITY of Bradford-based science group is aiming to forge stronger links between the city's young scientists and firms.

The Association of Bradford Scientists (ABS), founded by Dr Mohammad Salhab, plans to promote science in the city.

It is run through the University of Bradford's student union although it is not only open to scientific students but also those interested in science.

The Association hopes to enhance research through getting students on board with the scientist community during their studies and sharing ideas.

It meets once a fortnight, on Wednesdays, at the Richmond Road campus to discuss a range of scientific issues.

They also aim to form ties with Bradford pharmaceutical companies to take on university students for work placements and also ask them to liaise on what type of graduates they want to take on.

Chemicals company BASF, which has a site at Cleckheaton Road, Low Moor, has already come on board with the Association.

And the group, which has 54 members and was set up in September last year, is now looking for more firms to follow suit.

The Association is holding its research awards in September for University of Bradford students on a science-related course.

All entrants will have a chance to present their work at the ABS Scientific Symposium, held in September 2015, which will be attended by academics and researchers from a series of scientific fields.

The deadline for entries is June 1, 2015, with results available from June 26. Submissions should be made by students of the University of Bradford.

The research topic for this year's award is 'Complementary medicine and alternative therapies. Views on teaching roles and advocates including regulation.'

The prize for the winning entry is £500.

Dr Salhab, association president who is studying for a PhD in pharmacy at the University of Bradford, said: "We are hoping companies can work with us to redevelop the whole of the scientific community in Bradford. That is our aim.

"There are a lot of drugs and chemical companies in Bradford but there is not a lot of communication taking place.

"We want science students to take a more active role in the community with firms. We have a very good group in terms of science.

"The Association is open to anyone interested in science.

"At our meetings, we discuss anything pertaining to science.

"We hope to try to create placements and training opportunities locally for students. We want to ask the industries, what type of professionals do they want to work for them after they have been at the university for three years?

"I want to encourage people to develop their scientific ideas. Their idea could change their lives and other people's.

"We have set up our Symposium for September as there are no scientific events or conferences currently in Bradford."

The Association of Bradford Scientists is also looking to recruit new members.

Membership costs £3. E-mail absci@outlook.com for more information, or to join.

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