Celebrating Science Day: Students from Essen, Münster, and Munich Explore Laboratory Research

To mark this year's Science Day on November 10th, researchers from the TRR332 consortium "Neutrophils: Origin, Fate & Function" at the universities of Duisburg-Essen and Münster, as well as the Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) in Munich, invited students to their laboratories. Three separate groups participated in the event – one from the Immanuel Kant Gymnasium in Heiligenhausen visited the lab in Essen, another group from the Marienschule explored the facilities in Münster, and students from the Gymnasium Lindenberg in the Allgäu and Christoph-Probst-Gymnasium in Gilching visited the Biomedical Center (BMC) in Munich.

During their visit, both groups in Essen and Münster explored the world of immunological research. In Essen, the students learned about tissue staining and microscopy techniques, applying these skills to identify neutrophils in stained tissue samples. They used fluorescently labeled antibodies to visualize these cells, gaining insight into the role of neutrophils in our body's defense mechanisms.

At the University of Münster, the students employed advanced technologies, including flow cytometry, to analyze neutrophils in various tissues. By harnessing the power of fluorescence-based detection, they were able to quantify and characterize these vital immune cells. These experiments provided a deeper understanding of the complex processes involved in immune response regulation.

After completing their laboratory work, both student groups created presentations showcasing their discoveries and exchanged information via video conferencing. This interactive format facilitated an engaging discussion, enabling participants to share their observations and gain new perspectives. Professors Matthias Gunzer, Director of the Institute for Experimental Immunology and Imaging in Essen, and Oliver Söhnlein, Director of the Institute for Experimental Pathology in Münster, stressed the significance of introducing young individuals to scientific inquiry and fostering connections between scholars and researchers early on. The instructors accompanying the students expressed satisfaction with the level of engagement displayed throughout the day and look forward to continued involvement in upcoming Science Day activities.

Meanwhile, in Munich, students who visited the Biomedical Center (BMC) delved into the world of biomedical research. Over two days, under the guidance of professors and scientists, they explored topics such as blood typing and cell microscopy, and discussed the ethics of biomedical research. This initiative aimed to provide a realistic glimpse into the world of science and inspire future generations of researchers. By combining forces, all three locations offered unique experiences, promoting enthusiasm for STEM fields among young minds.