Eighty youngsters will tomorrow get an insight into the bugs that help human health as well as those which are potentially deadly.
It is hoped the 12 and 13-year-olds will be so inspired by what they learn that they consider taking biology as one of their Standard Grade options.
The S2 pupils from two Aberdeen schools are taking part in a Microbes: In Sickness and In Health workshop presented by the University of Aberdeen’s School of Medical Sciences. The event is taking place at the University on Tuesday and again on Thursday.
Participants from St Machar and Oldmachar Academies will be involved in hands-on activities in one of the University’s high-tech labs where they will explore the microbes which are a menace to health as well as the bugs which are beneficial and are used in the preparation of foods like yoghurt.
Dr Joy Perkins, University Teaching Fellow, has organised the event which has been funded by the Society for General Microbiology. She said: “We’re really hoping to enthuse pupils about science, biology and microbiology.
“As well as exploring organisms like bacteria and fungi in a fun and informative way, we will also outline the kind of jobs that are out there for those who choose to go down this path.”
On Thursday Professor Andy Porter will talk about the opportunities for bioscientists in what has become a fast expanding industry. The second session will also be a chance for pupils to see the bacteria that they grew in the earlier session.