IBMI at FORSCHA 2025: Science in Action!
On October 10th–12th, 2025, the Münchner Wissenschaftstage FORSCHA (Munich Science Days) once again transformed Munich into a vibrant hub of scientific discovery. And for the third year in a row, the Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging (IBMI), part of the Bioengineering Center at Helmholtz Munich, proudly hosted an interactive exhibition booth.
In the lead-up to the event, a dedicated team of researchers and science managers, including staff directly working in the SWOPT project, came together to design an engaging experience for visitors. Beyond our usual informative panels showcasing IBMI’s cutting-edge research, we introduced a variety of hands-on activities to spark curiosity and conversation.
Discovering Biomedical Innovation
Visitors to our booth had the opportunity to explore the exciting developments underway at IBMI. Thanks to our German-speaking scientists and communicators, we were able to explain complex concepts in an accessible and engaging way, highlighting not only our innovations but also the vital role of EU-funded research in solving medical and scientific challenges.
As always, we approached this science fair with open ears, valuing the feedback received from the public. These insights help us refine our research goals and keep us inspired in our mission.
This year, we placed special emphasis on engaging young visitors, believing that sparking their curiosity often inspires the adults accompanying them, as well. Our booth featured real scientific experiments where kids could wear lab coats, handle pipettes, and explore laboratory tools in a playful and educational setting.
Spotlight on SWOPT
SWOPT was one of the EU projects coordinated by IBMI presented at the booth. Two PhD students working in the project played a key role in both preparing the exhibition and interacting with visitors:
- Huma Khatoon demonstrated the principles of photoswitching and how protein engineering can be used to address biomedical challenges.
- Bjarne Perleberg explained the fundamentals of optoacoustics and the design of the imaging setup for a wide-range applications in bioengineering and medicine.
Their presence helped bridge the gap between research and public understanding, creating a relaxed, jargon-free space for meaningful dialogue.
A Diverse Audience, A Rewarding Experience
FORSCHA attracts a wonderfully diverse crowd. Among others, we met science-curious families, school groups, elderly enthusiastic about discoveries, teenagers exploring career paths, and individuals affected by diseases that biomedical engineering aims to address. This diversity allowed us to tailor our message to each visitor, making science personal and relevant.
Once again, FORSCHA proved to be a deeply rewarding experience. We had fun, received valuable feedback, and perhaps, we could inspire a few future scientists along the way! Sharing our work in such an open and interactive setting reminds us why science communication matters, and why we’ll be back next year.
See you at FORSCHA 2026!
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