A young scientist has made a major breakthrough in cancer treatment while on a work placement.

Naomi Conlon, made the discovery with scientists in genetic research at MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London.

The research used experiments with E. coli to reveal some of the information that regulates genes can also damage DNA, which may explain why this information is lost in cancer cells.

The 17-year-old is studying at CONEL for an Applied Science Extended Diploma Level 3, and is expected to be named as a co-author in a leading scientific journal about her teams discovery.

She said: “I never expected anything like this.

“It feels great to have contributed to a scientific breakthrough that could help fight cancer in the future.

“I’ve been using different pieces of equipment, taking part in experiments and presenting my findings at lab meetings.

“It’s been an amazing experience.”

Scientists believe this will give them a much better understanding of what happens in the early stages of the disease.

Dr Peter Sarkies, from MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, said: “I have been very impressed with Naomi.

“She is a dedicated and conscientious student who has proved herself to be a real asset to my research team.”