On 26 and 27 February 2026, the SICK Arena in Freiburg once again became a meeting place for young research talents. At the regional round of Jugend forscht, pupils presented their projects in science and technology – with impressive creativity, enthusiasm and curiosity
nanodiag BW took the opportunity, together with the Technische Fakultät der Universität Freiburg, to inspire the “younger” generation for “big” science.
Under the motto “Ran an die Pipetten!” (“Hands on the pipettes!”), visitors were invited to become active themselves. Researchers from the cluster explained in an accessible way how nanopore technology works – a key technology that enables highly sensitive analysis of biomolecular changes. Those who wished could try their hand at creating a membrane using a pipette and soap solution. As in previous years, the colourful 3D nanopore model and the cornhole game in nanopore design once again proved to be real crowd-pullers.
Fostering enthusiasm for research
The competition clearly demonstrated the remarkable potential of the next generation of scientists. Conversations at the stand showed that interest in molecular diagnostics, nanotechnology and medical engineering is high – particularly when complex topics are communicated in an understandable and practice-oriented way. The combination of basic research, technological development and medical application highlighted the strongly interdisciplinary approach of nanodiag BW.
For nanodiag BW, participation in Jugend forscht is more than a showcase event. It is part of the cluster’s self-conception: making research visible, strengthening science communication, and identifying and supporting talent at an early stage are key objectives alongside the development of modern diagnostic systems.
Together for the region
The event underlined the strength of Baden-Württemberg as a research location. The close collaboration between universities, non-university partners and industry – as practised within the nanodiag BW future cluster – creates an environment in which innovation can thrive.
Jugend forscht 2026 has shown that science inspires – especially when it can be experienced in practice. This applies equally to a metal detector built in primary school and to the detection of a peptide within a nanopore.
And perhaps some of the future researchers in molecular diagnostics are today still standing in front of their posters at the competition.