The nationwide theme of this year's Researchers' Night, 'Wealth', attracted more than 4,800 visitors to the Faculty of Science's two campuses. Of these, 1,370 visited the Kotlářská campus and over 2,430 visited the University Campus.
Visitors were given the opportunity to explore various areas of the natural sciences during an evening full of learning, entertainment and unexpected experiences. The theme of 'Wealth' was reflected in the many stands that presented science as a vibrant and intriguing subject.
The National Centre for Biomolecular Research (Bioskop), CEITEC and RECETOX also offered interactive stations. At the iGEM Brno stand, visitors could meet the student team representing the faculty in the most prestigious international biotechnology competition. Visitors could also learn about synthetic biology and sample duckweed, the superfood of the future.
Visitors of all ages were able to immerse themselves in the fascinating worlds of animals, plants, microorganisms and the human body. They were able to investigate invisible microbes and diverse invertebrates, as well as crops and soil resource and how plants can survive under extreme conditions. They uncovered the secrets of the brain, genetic information, protein structures and biomolecular diversity, and learnt about medicinal substances, rare metals, antibodies and the body’s natural defences. At the chemistry stands, visitors enjoyed sensory experiences and spectacular experiments with unexpected colourful reactions. Those interested in biotechnology or research on diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s also found something to interest them.
At the Kotlářská site, visitors could observe the richness of the microscopic world through an electron microscope, learn about plasma, and take a closer look at precious stones and minerals and examine gold under a microscope. There was also an opportunity to taste water and learn how the diversity of human tastes affects the human body and culture. Visitors could also enter a living light laboratory where the wonders of physics reveal the hidden order of the universe, transforming science into an unforgettable spectacle. The Ex Luminis physics exhibition showed visitors that true wealth lies in understanding the world around us, not in gold alone.
The Czech Antarctic Research Programme, which has completed over 20 expeditions to the melting white continent, attracted a great deal of interest. Visitors had the opportunity to meet expedition members and learn about the projects being carried out in Antarctica, how research is conducted under such extreme conditions and the impact of ongoing climate change.
We would like to thank everyone who joined us in uncovering the hidden treasures of science, and all the speakers who contributed to the event.
We look forward to seeing you again next year!
Photo: Irina Matusevich, Jitka Janů and Jan Kapaník
Tomáš Fiala returned to MU in October with an ERC Starting Grant. He has now also signed a contract with the Experientia Foundation, which will support the establishment of his laboratory at the Department of Chemistry of the Faculty of Science.
Prof. Milan Chytrý from the Department of Botany and Zoology of the Faculty of Science of Masaryk University has been elected member of Academia Europaea , one of the most respected scientific societies in Europe .
