CRC 1411 Researchers Inspire Young Minds on Girls’ Day

On April 3rd, Annika Mauch and Frederic Dietrich, doctoral researchers of the CRC1411, introduced young female students to the fascinating world of structural color and porous materials during the “Girls’ day”. This nationwide event aims to encourage girls to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The students learned how structural colors differ from traditional pigments, discovering how nature—through butterflies, beetles, and bird feathers—creates brilliant hues without the use of dyes. Hands-on demonstrations allowed the participants to see these effects up close and understand their potential applications in technology and material sciences.

Additionally, the team introduced the concept of porous materials and their importance in various fields, such as catalysis, filtration, and medical applications. Engaging experiments and interactive discussions sparked curiosity and excitement among the young visitors.

By participating in Girls’ Day, we hope to inspire the next generation of female scientists and engineers, a key goal our outreach project. Encouraging young girls to pursue STEM fields is crucial for fostering innovation and diversity in research. We are delighted to have shared our passion for science and look forward to future outreach activities!