Once again the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) was filled with aspiring young scientists participating in the 9th Edition of the Barcelona International Youth Science Challenge (BIYSC).
BIYSC is one of the flagship science outreach programs of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), welcoming high school students from across the globe with the goal of promoting scientific vocations, nurturing curiosity, and fostering a deeper understanding of real-world research. Over the two-week program, students were immersed in the daily life of a working chemistry lab, carrying out hands-on experiments and exploring diverse research areas.
Dr. Duarte contributed to this year’s program as a mentor and advisor over a two-day period. He guided a group of international students in the lab, offering them a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in a cutting-edge research environment.
Among the activities led by Dr. Duarte was a creative, hands-on experiment: students processed semiconductive polymers into thin films using an improvised spin coater built from a computer fan. This exercise gave students insight into how photonic devices are engineered and emphasized the importance of innovation and resourcefulness in scientific research.