During the first two weeks of July/2024, the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) was full of future young scientists from the 8th Edition of the Barcelona International Youth Science Challenge (BIYSC). Dr. Duarte played a pivotal role as an advisor and mentor, guiding young students aged 16 to 18 through a hands-on scientific project.
BIYSC is one of the most important outreach programs from the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, receiving young students (16 to 18 years old) from all over the world, with the intention of promoting science and furnishing curiosity. During the program, the students are inspired by researchers and encouraged to work hands-on a scientific project, attending lectures and practical classes, that later are turned into a report and an oral presentation.
This year, as part of the BIYSC programe, ICIQ offered the project entitled: “Innovation in Photochemistry and Drug Synthesis: Shaping a Sustainable Future“. For two weeks, the students had the opportunity to engage with the daily operations of a chemistry lab, conducting experiments and exploring various research areas. The program covered topics as photonic devices, spectroscopy, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry.
The project was a collaborative effort, designed and coordinated by Dr. Laura Hernández Eguía, Joan Guillem Mayans Peñarrubia, Santi Gené, and Dr. Felipe Garcés, with ICIQ postdoctoral researchers providing additional guidance.
Dr. Duarte supervised twelve undergraduate students, offering them valuable practical experience in a state-of-the-art research environment. The proposed experiments included the processing of some semiconductive polymers into thin films by improvising a spin coater using a computer fan, so the students could better understand how photonic devices are constructed. His commitment to helping young talent and sharing his knowledge had a big impact on the students he supervised inspiring a new generation of researchers.
As stated by Dr. Duarte:
Taking part in the BIYSC has been an invaluable experience. As an MSCA fellow, it provides me the opportunity to share my research, inspire the next generation of scientist, and enhance my leadership skills. Engaging in scientific discussions with students from diverse backgrounds gave me the chance to follow how they process new information, what greatly enriched my journey as a researcher and mentor.
Dr. Luis Duarte, MSCA Postodoctoral research fellow at Dr. Elisabet Romero’s group
More info: https://biysc.org/challenges // Eleven BIYSC students shape a sustainable future learning how ICIQ research impacts society
