The Gurdon Institute - Cambridge University
Taking viewers behind the scenes to experience a year in the life of a scientific institute
Documentary
Challenge
The Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, established in 1989 by Nobel Prize winning scientist, John Gurdon, is a world leader in developmental biology research.
In 2018 the Institute already had a series of videos on its YouTube channel profiling its lab leaders and their research. But those only told part of their story. Next they wanted to share the experiences and skills of the people whose vital contributions often go unnoticed: the technicians, lab administrators, safety officers and welfare managers.
Solution
We came up with a plan to visit the Institute once a month over the course of a year to spend a day each time filming interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. The filmed material was edited into twelve short videos with one uploaded every month for a whole year.
Although the work that goes on at the Gurdon Institute is undoubtedly serious, the tone of the series was designed to be light-hearted, giving viewers a unique insight into what it’s like to work at a world-class biological research facility that prioritises the welfare of its people as much as the science it produces.
Meet the unsung heroes of Gurdon’s scientific research…the frogs
Gurdon’s microscope builders create machines to uncover biology’s deepest secrets
The Gurdon Institute’s annual family Christmas party is a highlight of the annual calendar
The Gurdon’s research couldn’t happen without the team that concoct the chemicals
“I had complete confidence in the Orinoco Communications team; just one of the benefits of working with a company that specialises in science communication. The videos have spread the word about the many roles that help to make science happen, while celebrating our dedicated support staff. Working with Peter and his team on these was both educational and fun!”
— Claire O’Brien, Head of Communications, The Gurdon Institute
