GIRLS DO IT: Insights into Research, Model Organisms, and Scientific Careers

Last Wednesday, the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior caesar (MPINB) welcomed a group of female students as part of the Schülerinnen MINT Year, a program the institute has been involved in since its inception. The visit was part of the current cohort "GIRLS DO IT das Schülerinnen MINT Jahr". Another group of participants will return to the institute for a second visit in May.

The focus of the visit was research at the MPINB. The students were introduced to work with model organisms, gained insights into ongoing research questions, and met scientists working at the institute. The aim was to make research tangible as a dynamic and diverse process and to introduce the people behind the science.

Experiments with model organisms

This year, the students carried out experiments using C. elegans, gaining hands-on experience with how this model organism is used to investigate fundamental questions about the nervous system and behavior. The range of model systems used at the institute was also discussed. In previous years, visits focused on Drosophila and zebrafish larvae. This highlighted how different organisms provide distinct perspectives on neuroethological research questions.

Personal paths in science

A special highlight of this year’s visit was the talk and discussion with Desiree Goetting. She spoke openly about her academic journey to date and presented the topic of her doctoral research. In doing so, she emphasized how important it is to follow one’s passion and that it is perfectly fine to change direction or start anew. The personal exchange gave the students the opportunity to ask questions and gain a realistic impression of careers in science.

About

The "Schülerinnen MINT Jahr" is a collaborative project of the zdi MINT network in the Rhein Sieg district and the Equal Opportunities Office of Bonn Rhein Sieg University of Applied Sciences. It is aimed at female students in grades 8 to 10 from all types of schools in the region and seeks to encourage them to pursue their interests in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology.

Further information about the project can be found here:
Rhein Sieg district
Bonn Rhein Sieg University of Applied Sciences

How the students experienced the day

In a short interview, the students describe their impressions of their visit to MPINB. They provide insights into their experiences of the day and talk about their thoughts on pursuing a career in STEM.

Public Lab at the MPINB

At the Public Lab of the MPINB, school classes and project groups have the opportunity to experience our research up close. In supervised courses, participants work experimentally with model organisms, learn basic scientific methods, and engage directly with researchers at the institute. The aim of the Public Lab is to spark early interest in science and to provide realistic insights into everyday research practice. If you are interested in a course or would like further information about the Public Lab, please contact Julia Schlee.