The INSTITUT BIOTECMED program will provide recreational and informative activities that allow the public to engage with the INSTITUT's research activities. The BIOTECMED groups will be located in the business area of the Science Park, in the part closest to the road, which will ensure easy access and will contribute to the large influx of visitors.

Four workshops were held, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the most playful side of science through play, fun, and engaging the five senses. These workshops were:

BACTERIAL POKÉDEX. BIOTECMED

The activity focused on connecting the world of Pokémon with work in microbiology, explaining different routine techniques using bacterial Pokémon captured by participants.

BACTERIA AND THEIR GENES IN CROP PROTECTION. BIOTECMED

The microbiological control of caterpillars of agricultural pest species was explained. The life cycles of some of these pests were demonstrated, along with how they affect plant growth and how they can be combated using bacterial pathogens or their genes introduced into self-defense genetically modified plants. The little ones were able to draw, paint, and paste the components of the butterfly life cycle on a plate and take them home.

OFF THE MICROSCOPE! DECIPHER WHICH PHASE OF THE CELL CYCLE YEAST IS IN. BIOTECMED

Our lab uses yeast to study how cells divide, a process known as the cell cycle. In the activity, we invited participants to look at yeast samples under a microscope to try to figure out what stage of the cycle they are in. We also provided coloring sheets for the little ones.

LITTLE HEROES OF THE FIELD: WASPS THAT PROTECT OUR CROPS. BIOTECMED

Beneficial insects for sustainable pest control in agriculture were presented, and how this control works was explained. In the activity, we invited participants to look at some of them under a microscope. The little ones were able to draw the life cycle of some of these species.

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