by Sofia Paraskevopoulou
On May 26, 2024, I had the pleasure of organizing an outreach event in our Microbiology Lab, where we welcomed a group of enthusiastic high school students for an up-close look at the world of protists. With microscopes set up and samples collected from nearby ponds, soils, and animal stools, we set out to uncover the hidden diversity of these fascinating microbes.
Together with my colleagues, we guided the students through their first encounters with spiral algae, ciliates, and diatoms. It was incredible to watch their excitement grow as they realized how complex and dynamic these tiny organisms are.
We discussed the crucial roles protists play in ecosystem function, from nutrient cycling to symbiosis, and their relevance in environmental research. The students asked thoughtful questions and left with a deeper appreciation for the microscopic world and, hopefully, a spark of scientific curiosity.
This event was part of our lab’s ongoing effort to make science accessible and engaging for the next generation. To learn more, have a look here