Making technology accessible, sparking enthusiasm for research, and highlighting future opportunities – the Zukunfscluster nanodiag BW is actively committed to fostering young STEM talent and advancing gender equality. Two recent events demonstrate how, as guests at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Freiburg, we contribute to inspiring young people to pursue science and technology.Â
High-Tech Meets Youth Development: The Student Engineering AcademyÂ
On January 31st, nine students from the Plus-MINT group at Birklehof Gymnasium Hinterzarten were invited by the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Freiburg to take part in the Student Engineering Academy – with nanodiag BW contributing an exciting hands-on session. The main focus of the day: What does modern research look like in practice – and what paths lead there?Â
Following an introduction to degree programs by Kerstin Steiger-Merx (Head of Public Relations at the Faculty of Engineering), the group moved on to nanodiag BW. There, participants gained exciting insights into the world of nanopore sequencing. Scientists Christian Feuerbacher and Caitlin Turney demonstrated, using a magnified model and an animated simulation, how DNA sequencing works on a molecular level.Â
Next, the students experienced automated sample preparation and carried out several pipetting steps themselves. Initial measurement data were analyzed live – offering a hands-on look into modern diagnostic processes.
The day concluded with a visit to the cleanroom observation corridor, where the group was able to glimpse high-tech laboratory workstations through glass walls.Â
With many new impressions, the students from Birklehof left the campus in the afternoon.Â
Girls’ Day 2025: Tech Careers for GirlsÂ
On April 3rd, the Faculty of Engineering once again opened its doors for Girls’ Day – around 30 female students explored the world of technology, asked questions, listened, and engaged in conversations with five female scientists from various disciplines. Among them was Helena Gmoser from nanodiag BW. The moderated discussion addressed topics such as choosing a field of study, individual research interests, and typical daily routines in the lab.Â
Helena offered a personal perspective: she studied Microsystems Engineering at the University of Freiburg because she found the connection between technology and medicine particularly fascinating – a passion that still drives her work today at the Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK). There, she develops molecular diagnostic tests that could one day help detect diseases like cancer at an early stage.Â
Women are still underrepresented in many STEM professions, especially in fields such as technology, computer science, and the natural sciences. Girls’ Day provides a fantastic opportunity to break down gender stereotypes and inspire girls to explore innovative areas of research. The goal is to encourage young women to consider careers in technology – beyond outdated societal norms. nanodiag BW is also actively committed to diversity and gender equality in STEM, because we firmly believe: innovation thrives on diversity.Â
Our Conclusion:
With the Student Engineering Academy and Girls’ Day, the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Freiburg offers valuable guidance to young people interested in science and technology. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kerstin Steiger-Merx for the invitation and for organizing these opportunities – and we are proud, as a research cluster, to be part of this meaningful work in fostering the next generation.Â
