RESILIENCE case study: Amplifying learning experiences with the University of Edinburgh
8th January 2026
In November 2025 Professor Garry Blakely, Chair of Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology, visited the RESILIENCE team at Heriot-Watt University with nineteen final year undergraduate students from the University of Edinburgh's Biotechnology Degree Programme. Find out how they have used RESILIENCE to enhance their students' learning experience and skills in our latest RESILIENCE case study.
The University of Edinburgh is a globally recognised institution. Ranked fourth in the UK for research power, it provides world-class teaching and research.
Gary was informed about RESILIENCE through connections at IBIoIC and FlexBIO, and he felt that the programme could be a great way to enhance learning experiences and the skills of his final year students.
“The students had learned the theory behind fermenter design and industrial applications but had no hands on experience. The RESILIENCE augmented reality experience provided an environment they could become familiar with expensive equipment without fear of causing damage.”
Professor Garry Blakely, Chair of Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Edinburgh
The students were then able to use their new found skills for real, assembling a real bioprocessing unit at the FlexBIO facility. In Garry Blakely’s view The identification of probe function and control possibilities provided a tangible connection to the pedagogical content of lectures and helped reinforce learning outcomes. These weren’t the only benefits. As Garry points out, “Supplying bioreactor vessels for students to handle in a lab setting is generally too expensive for most universities. The ability to simulate this in AR/VR provides an incredible tool to allow familiarisation with expensive and fragile equipment.”
The session has been equally warmly received by the students taking part.
“The virtual reality experience was incredibly enjoyable and undoubtedly a fantastic way to prepare for real-life lab work.”
Final Year Student, University of Edinburgh Biotechnology Degree Programme
Access to cutting edge VR educational tools is only one of the benefits of joining the RESILIENCE network. If you are a school, college or university and would like to know more free or enhanced membership, please