A day full of discoveries

Employees of the two institutions designed a varied program – from glass melting to observing individual cells under a microscope. They wanted to introduce the young guests to scientific work and spark their interest in the exciting topics covered at the two research institutions.

At the beginning, two scientists shared their personal experiences as women in research and gave the girls valuable insights into their professional careers. The enthusiasm was tangible on both sides – scientists and students immersed themselves in the world of research with great curiosity and passion.

Experiments, technology and laboratories up close

After the theoretical introduction, it was time for some practical work: the participants were able to visit various stations in small groups. At MPL, the program included building technologies, the workshops and the glass studio. There they experienced first hand what precision work in research looks like – whether it’s milling, measuring or manufacturing glass fibers. In the glass studio, the girls had the opportunity to try on cleanroom suits themselves and thus experience how work is carried out in highly sensitive research areas. They also learned about the production of fibers and were able to observe how aluminum and glass are melted.

At the same time, the participants at MPZPM explored the connections between physics and medicine. First touch, then understand. With interactive touch boxes, the girls learned how basic knowledge of the mechanical properties of cells and their microenvironment can be used for disease diagnostics. In the lobby of MPZPM, the potential researchers of tomorrow projected virtual cells, viruses and bacteria using an app and examined them. Using a model, they were able to understand how and why neurons in the brain grow in which direction. They also gained insights into the IT and building technology of the research center. They took apart PCs and laptops and learned about their differences. They delved into the operational heart of MPZPM and learned how these departments ensure the stability of the research environment at the highest level.

During the subsequent laboratory tours at both research institutions, they learned about modern microscopic procedures and experimental techniques such as pipetting, and tried them out themselves.

A joint finale with ice cream and crocheted neurons

After a morning full of new impressions, the participants were treated to a special culinary science experience: the participants were served homemade strawberry ice cream made with liquid nitrogen. MPL’s occupational safety officer vividly explained what liquid nitrogen is and how to handle it safely – a spectacular experiment that literally made science palatable. The girls at MPZPM did not go away empty-handed either: they received self-crocheted neurons from one of the participating scientists.

About Girls’ Day

The Girls’ Day is sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). With around 23,300 offers and a total of around 174,000 places for school students nationwide, Girls’ Day and Boys’ Day meet the ongoing demand for stereotype-free career orientation for young people. More than 2.5 million places have been made available to girls as part of Girls’ Day since 2001.