Cluster4Future nanodiag BW Promotes STEM Enthusiasm at the Science Days in Europapark
Freiburg, 27 October 2024 – The Cluster4Future nanodiag BW reflects on a successful participation at the Science Days in Europapark Rust from 24 to 26 October.
With an exciting interactive offering, the researchers from nanodiag BW provided direct insights into nanopore technology. By actively promoting young talent in STEM, the Cluster4Future inspired enthusiasm for science and technology among young visitors and presented science in a way that becomes tangible in people’s everyday lives.
A colourful giant nanopore produced through 3D printing successfully served as an eye-catcher and as a starting point for conversations with students, as well as with numerous teachers and parents.

There were plenty of questions: What are nanopores, what are they used for, and how are they made? How large are they, and what do researchers do with them in the lab? Nanopores are tiny holes with a diameter of only one or a few millionths of a millimetre, which means they are on the nanometre scale. Through such nanopores, cells in plants, animals, or humans exchange nutrients that have been broken down into smaller components, such as glucose metabolites. Nanopores can, for example, be derived from bacteria and then incorporated into an insulating membrane. In a saline solution, we can then measure the current flowing through the pore when a voltage is applied. This setup provides us with a measurement cell that allows us to detect tiny changes in our genetic material by measuring the resistance in the current flow, which these changes trigger when entering the nanopore. In this way, we can detect diseases before they even arise.
Through live experiments, the young audience was shown the functionality and potential of nanopore technology. “Every molecule counts” – the slogan of nanodiag BW – became vividly apparent. Using soap solution and pipettes, students could then create their own membrane in our mobile transfer lab, gaining a first impression of working in a laboratory.
nanodiag BW aims to introduce and explain the complex topic of nanopore technology and its potential to the general public at an early stage.

“Engaging with younger audiences is an integral part of the cluster's public outreach. The numerous extremely positive responses encourage us to continue on this path and spark interest in science among as many children and young people as possible.”
Dr. Hanna Hasselblatt, Clustermanager
In addition, our students and staff were not only able to present their research projects but also gather valuable feedback from the public—a boost to their motivation and development.
The Science Days take place every autumn at Europapark Rust. They are primarily aimed at students aged 10 and up, with the goal of inspiring young people to engage with scientific topics early on. Scientific institutions and research-driven companies present their work in an age-appropriate way and offer hands-on activities.