Altitude Physiology Expeditions (APEX) is not one of the most well-known societies at Edinburgh, nor one of the biggest. Yet this society, offering students the opportunity to conduct medical research to further their understanding of how high altitudes may impact the human body, has perhaps one of the broadest reaches of any society at Edinburgh.
The APEX adventure, or APEX, is a high-altitude research expedition, founded by students at the University of Edinburgh in 2001. Since its founding year, it has successfully conducted six research expeditions to South America – allowing students to create high quality research and break world records along the way.
APEX produces scientific research concerning how high altitudes may impact the human body, specifically in regards to hypoxia, and how this interreacts with and ultimately impacts human physiology. As a result of this, “APEX” research findings have been utilised internationally – acting to improve patient care. Examples of research products produced in previous years include studies of gene expression, metabolism and cognition – all helping to establish the project’s prestige within the medical and scientific community.
According to Collette Revadillo, Head of Communications for APEX and fifth-year medical student at the University of Edinburgh, “for students fortunate enough to take part in APEX expeditions, the experience is deeply transformative in ways that extend well beyond their academic lives”. She states that although the “learning curve is steep…participants consistently come away feeling that they’ve gained a new perspective—not only on science but on themselves”
This view is supported by several students who have undergone APEX expeditions. For example, Cameron Norton, fifth-year medical student at the University of Edinburgh and co-expedition leader of APEX 7, speaks highly of his experience in combining academic interests with adventure. He expresses that “The expedition pushed us out of our comfort zones… Adapting to high altitudes was tough, but the experience of conducting cutting-edge research in such dynamic and unpredictable conditions was unparalleled.”
APEX prides itself on its accessibility. No trekking experience is required to join the expedition, and there is no requirement to carry your own gear or hike long distances. As Revadillo states, “APEX is open to all Edinburgh University students, regardless of background or academic discipline”. In fact, whilst the expedition is clearly grounded in medicine, no medical knowledge is necessary, with Revadillo describing “Even if you’re not a medical student, you’ll be involved in this world-class research by helping to collect samples, perform basic analyses, and support the research teams in the field”.
Outside of the experience itself, students also express that the friendships they build during APEX were truly life changing. Revadillo describes “the human connections and camaraderie” that come with the expedition as being equally “memorable as the scientific discoveries”. This is supported by Norton, who observes that the friendships and networks made during APEX are “invaluable,” and that “even now, years after the expedition, I’m still in regular contact with many of the participants, some of whom have gone on to amazing careers.”
The setting of APEX only adds to how memorable this expedition is for students who take part. The Bolivian Andes is described by Revadillo as being one of the most “stunning natural landscapes on the planet”. Perfect for adventure-seekers, the mountain offers beginner friendly climbs as well as the opportunity to view astonishing natural glaciers. However, the APEX adventure extends beyond these mountains. Volunteers are also offered the opportunity to explore the city of La Paz, a bustling metropolis that is representative of the rich culture, history and natural beauty of Bolivia.
Furthermore, from an academic standpoint, the research produced via the APEX expeditions has the potential to truly change lives. It can lead to new treatments for heart and lung conditions, and even improve protocols for extreme environments like space travel. Thus, the expedition is not only rewarding on a personal, but also a societal level.
As Ben Harrison, a fourth-year medical student and Head of Funding for APEX 7, states: “[APEX is] the perfect blend of adventure and academia. You’re part of an international expedition, contributing to scientific research in one of the most amazing locations in the world, all while experiencing the thrill of high-altitude environments.”
“huyana potosi 2-1-2” by Baptiste Monet is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
