26 February 2026
Students from the University are presenting their work in Parliament as part of a national spotlight on undergraduate medical research
Students from the University of Sunderland are presenting their work at the Houses of Parliament as part of a national spotlight on undergraduate medical research.
Posters in Parliament is an annual event led by the University of Warwick that brings together the best research by medical students from across the country to the Houses of Parliament to give them an opportunity to present to MPs, Peers and policymakers.
Hosted by Sir Alec Shelbrooke MP for Wetherby and Easingwold, and John Slinger MP for Rugby, Bulkington and the Villages, University of Sunderland medical students Amarachi Inyama and Philippa Halse showcased their work in London alongside students from 23 other institutions.
Amarachi said: “This is not an opportunity I would have ever envisioned for myself or a place I would’ve ever envisioned myself in. I am so grateful for all the support I've received from many staff at the School of Medicine.”
Philippa said: “It's been incredible having the opportunity to present my work in such a prestigious setting, knowing that the message behind it can reach a wider and more influential audience.”
As well as presenting their posters at the event, Amarachi and Philippa also had the chance to discuss their research with Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson MP.
Amarachi’s research explores what factors among the black community motivate them to attend health screenings and what may cause barriers to accessing that care.
Amarachi said: “The hope is that we can use these factors to create an intervention that can increase screening uptake. Being a black student, it was so empowering to be part of research that helps my community and strives towards equity. I felt truly connected to this study and seen.”
Philippa’s research focusses in on LGBTQ+ fertility treatment in England and explores the barriers that individuals and couples face when trying to access fertility treatment.
Philippa said: “The barriers that LGBTQ+ people face when accessing fertility treatment include financial, legal, and systemic challenges that can create significant inequalities in access to care. It is a topic that remains underrepresented despite its importance, and I hope this research helps change that.”
Professor Scott Wilkes, Head of the School of Medicine at the University, said: “I’m delighted to see Phillipa and Amarachi succeeding on the national stage. They have progressed through stern competition within the medical school to reach the Parliamentary stage.
“I’m extremely proud of their achievements and very much looking forward to seeing them in action in London. They are wonderful ambassadors for our medical school, and they deserve every success. This will be indelibly etched into their CVs – well done Philippa and Amarachi.”
If you are interested in studying Medicine at the University of Sunderland, find out more here.