The Biomolecular Engineering Lab was present in one more edition of the European Researchers’ Night held at the Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência (MUHNAC) in Lisbon.
This year, our interactive exhibit invited visitors to “fish” for proteins, quite literally. Participants used a fishing rod to simulate protein purification in a “pool,” letting them grasp in a playful way how proteins can be captured and isolated in the lab. We also explained how different proteins, derived from various sources/animals, have distinct and exciting functions. For example, some naturally occurring proteins can inspire wound-dressing materials, and in the lab we can design analogous proteins without relying on animal sources.
It was immensely rewarding to engage with curious minds, spark conversations about biotechnology, and show how hands-on experiences can demystify complex lab techniques. We look forward to bringing even more creative demonstrations next time!
