Surprisingly high interest was aroused at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IMG) by the international popularisation event Researchers’ Night, during which hundreds of scientific buildings, normally inaccessible to the public, were opened.
On Friday, September 27, 2024, the Researchers’ Night also took place on the premises of the campus of Biomedical Institutes of the Czech Academy of Sciences in Krč. For the first time, it was organized through the joint efforts of the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, and the Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences.
A rich program was prepared for both young and old science fans. In addition to interactive demonstrations directly in the laboratories, popularisation lectures, discussions with scientists, an educational trail and an escape game were also prepared. Areas and facilities of buildings that are not normally accessible were opened as well. During the lecture series, visitors could learn about powerful microorganisms from the Arctic, the cellular skeleton, advances in cancer research, changes in hearing or the mammary gland during life, treatment of brain damage or why on earth anyone researches slugs.
“We are very honored that 750 children, adults and seniors dedicated their free Friday evening to science and its knowledge”
“The total number of visitors at the campus of biomedical Institutes of the Czech Academy of Sciences exceeded our expectations. Thanks to all the visitors who made their trip to Krč. We are very honored that 750 children, adults and seniors dedicated their free Friday evening to science and its knowledge,” says Petr Dráber, director of the IMG, adding: “Thanks to the people’s interest, we see that such events make sense, and in the future, we will prepare new activities that will bring our knowledge and our work closer to the public. Of course, thanks also goes to all the lecturers, guides and everyone else who made the Researchers’ Night possible.”
We look forward to seeing you again next year!