Hands-on science: BioVT at the Rhineland-Palatinate Day in Neustadt

From 23 to 25 May, the Rhineland-Palatinate University of Technology Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU) presented an exciting hands-on programme at the Rhineland-Palatinate Day in Neustadt an der Weinstraße. Under the slogan 'Together we are the future – digitalisation and innovation', the university presented itself on the 'Innovation Mile' with 16 interactive activities for visitors of all ages.

The university seized the opportunity to showcase its research, offer insights into scientific phenomena, and present its diverse range of degree programmes.

'Living diversity' was the motto under which the BioVT department presented itself at the colourful RPTU stand.

The bubbling photobioreactor containing the microalgae Microchloropsis gaditana proved particularly popular. As well as attracting curious glances, it impressively conveyed the importance of microalgae and cyanobacteria for life on Earth. Their enormous potential for sustainable research was also made tangible. Visitors could measure the growth of the algae themselves using a Smart Education photometer, gaining an exciting insight into laboratory work.

Another highlight at the BioVT table was the popular microbial fingerprinting activity. Both children and adults listened with interest to BioVT employees' descriptive explanations of the diverse occurrence of bacteria and micro-fungi — not only in soil, air and water, but also in and on our own bodies. Visitors then pressed their finger onto a culture medium in a Petri dish to visualise the number of microorganisms invisible to the naked eye that are present on our skin. They took this very personal microbial fingerprint home with them, eager to observe the growth of the microorganisms over the next few days.

The large number of visitors to the RPTU stand demonstrated the broad public interest in science and research. This highlights the importance of providing behind-the-scenes insights, not least to inspire young talent in research.