During the month of March, NOVA Medical School took part in two initiatives promoted by Ciência Viva, reinforcing its commitment to advancing scientific literacy and strengthening the connection between research and society.
As part of Brain Awareness Week, the Pavilhão do Conhecimento hosted the initiative “Desperta-mente,” dedicated to exploring the brain across different species, from insects to humans.
NOVA Medical School was represented by the laboratory led by Principal Investigator César Mendes (Neurogenetics of Locomotion Lab), which led the activity “And There Was Light! Remote Control of Neurons.” Through an interactive approach, participants had the opportunity to engage with Drosophila melanogaster, a widely used model organism in genetic and biomedical research. Real-time demonstrations showed methods for modulating neuronal activity using stimuli such as light or temperature, highlighting the species’ contribution to the study of fundamental processes such as development, sleep, and memory.
As part of the National Ciência Viva Clubs at School Forum, NOVA Medical School also participated in the Science and Technology Exhibition, an event that brings together projects developed in both school and scientific contexts.
In this initiative, the Fly Unit and the Histology Unit of NOVA Medical School’s Research Infrastructure Services were present, presenting activities aimed at school audiences. Three-dimensional models of the fruit fly were used, showcasing its internal organs, alongside live specimens with different markers, allowing for detailed observation using magnifying tools. In parallel, microscope demonstrations were conducted, including the observation of histological samples from different tissues, such as skin, colon, stomach, and brain.
Participation in these initiatives contributed to showcasing the diverse areas of research developed at the institution, promoting direct interaction between students, teachers, and researchers, and fostering interest in the biomedical sciences from the earliest levels of education.