Research Laboratories at the Faculty Sparked Interest in the Value of Science
"Create an Organ in the Laboratory," "Molecular Gastronomy Corner," "Feel Bioelectronics," and "Sushi: pleasure and Danger on the Table" were just four of the many experiences that around 1500 high school students from across the country explored at the Faculty of Biotechnology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa, in Porto. From April 2 to 4, the Open Week showcased various facets of biotechnology, in an environment that combined scientific rigor with a playful approach that inspired the participants.
"The Open Week is an initiative that mixes faculty members, researchers, and students to demonstrate that science is present in our lives and contributes decisively to our health and well-being," emphasized Paula Castro, Director of the Faculty of Biotechnology. "For over two decades, we have welcomed more than 30,000 high school students to this annual initiative that promotes bioengineering, microbiology, chemistry, genetics, biology, and nutrition to a younger audience," she added.
With nearly 30 scheduled activities, participants had the opportunity to explore diverse areas of knowledge. Among the highlights were: Biomaterials in the fight against chronic wounds — Innovative and sustainable solutions for healing difficult wounds; Myth Buster — A challenge to demystify popular beliefs related to science; Create an organ in the lab! — An opportunity to learn the basics of tissue engineering; In search of hidden nutrients — A journey to discover the nutritional value of everyday foods; Encapsulate to feed — Innovative techniques to encapsulate nutrients and extend their effectiveness; The Molecular Gastronomy Corner — Science applied to cooking, where texture and flavour surprise; Feel Bioelectronics! — Explore the connection between electronics and biology through bioelectronic impulses; Sushi: pleasure and danger on the table — An analysis of the risks and benefits of consuming sushi.
Other topics included the importance of water in life, using waste to create new foods and medicines, and analysing bioelectronic impulses. Participants were also challenged to uncover the hidden strategies behind advertising in supermarkets.
"We take our responsibility to share knowledge with the community seriously. The Open Week is one of the many initiatives we develop throughout the year, all of which align to promote scientific literacy: from biotechnology Olympiads to the future food contest, the bioengineering congress, invitations for a week of immersion in science, to meetings to get to know the realities of scientists' lives, there are countless initiatives, and the reactions from schools, teachers, and students are always rewarding," Paula Castro emphasized.
The Open Week at the Faculty of Biotechnology took place in the Biotechnology Building of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto and was a unique opportunity for high school students to learn about the impact and potential of biotechnology in today's world.
