The “Talented at School, Brilliant at the University” programme is a unique initiative that allows young science enthusiasts to enter the world of research and experience the work of a researcher from the inside. Participants have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers from the University of Lodz, make use of modern research infrastructure, and develop their interests by carrying out their own original research projects.
This year’s edition of the programme attracted considerable interest. A total of 72 participants representing 20 high schools from the region applied. Following the selection process, 38 students were admitted to the programme and, under the supervision of mentors from the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, completed 28 research projects. The topics covered a wide range of fields, including biology, biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, molecular biology, environmental protection, ecology, biotechnology, microbiology, botany, hydrobiology and zoology.
During the final gala, the young researchers presented the results of their work to the academic community, teachers and invited guests. The presentations demonstrated not only the high substantive level of the projects, but also the participants’ great curiosity about the world, creativity and commitment. For many of them, it was their first opportunity to conduct independent scientific research, analyse results and present their achievements publicly within an academic environment.
For years, the programme has served as an example of effective integration of school education with the scientific activity of the university. Through direct contact with researchers, students are able to develop research competences, learn critical thinking and gain insight into the realities of academic work. For many participants, involvement in the programme becomes the first step towards a future academic or science-related professional career.
The award presentation for the authors of the highest-rated research projects was the highlight of the ceremony. The competition committee assessed the scientific value of the projects, the presentation of results and the participants’ level of engagement in their research.
The Grand Prize of the “Talented at School, Brilliant at the University” programme was awarded to:
Aleksandra Wajs the Public High School of the Lodz University of Technology for the project “Fungi in Astrobiology”, carried out under the supervision of dr hab. Małgorzata Ruszkiewicz-Michalska, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz, from the Department of Algology and Mycology.
The jury also granted three distinctions:
- Wojciech Górecki from the Ludwik Zamenhof High School No 31 in Łódź for the project “Fungi in the Forest Park in Janów, Łódź”, supervised by dr hab. Izabela Kałucka, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz, from the Department of Algology and Mycology;
- Maja Mucha from the Adam Asnyk High School No 8 in Łódź for the project “Magnesium Toxicity in Plants”, supervised by Dr Mateusz Wala from the Department of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry;
- Arkadiusz Szymański from the Bolesław Prus High School in Skierniewice for the project “Comparison of Amphipod Diversity in Two Coastal Habitats of Japan Using Molecular Methods (DNA Barcoding)”, supervised by dr hab. Anna Jażdżewska, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz, from the Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Hydrobiology.
The awards and distinctions reflected recognition of the high quality of the presented projects and the passion with which the young researchers approached their work. This year’s edition once again demonstrated the great potential of young people and how much they can achieve through collaboration with experienced academic mentors.
All participants received certificates confirming their participation in the programme. The organisers emphasised that initiatives such as the “Talented at School, Brilliant at the University” programme not only foster young people’s scientific interests but also build a bridge between school and university, inspiring future generations of researchers to take on ambitious scientific challenges.
The final gala marked the culmination of many months of intensive work, while also opening the door to new scientific journeys for many participants. The Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection at the University of Lodz consistently supports young talents by creating opportunities to develop passions, gain research experience, and explore the fascinating world of science.
We would like to offer warm congratulations to all the programme participants and their mentors on their outstanding research projects. Thank you for your commitment, passion and contribution to the advancement of science. We wish you continued academic success, courage in taking on new challenges and an enduring curiosity about the world, which is the foundation of every discovery.
FULL PHOTO REPORT is available on FLICKR
Edit and photographs: Mateusz Kowalski (Promotion Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz)
Source and group photograph: Dr Paulina Wigner-Jeziorska (Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz)
