Aragon celebrates Science Week with more than 50 outreach activities in the three provinces

The IIS Aragón will participate in the Science Corner with a practical activity on microvasculature analysis on November 14th

Science Week returns to Aragon with a new, open, and participatory program, including more than 50 outreach activities across the three provinces. These days are dedicated to bringing research closer to all citizens, of all ages, through workshops, scientific experiences, and family activities.

The initiative is being developed thanks to the involvement of a wide network of entities and research centers, together with the University of Zaragoza (UNIZAR) and the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), in collaboration with the Government of Aragon, thus consolidating a strategic alliance to promote scientific culture and research talent in Aragon.

Science Corner in Zaragoza

Science takes to the streets again on November 14th, from 10:00 AM to 13:00 PM, at the San Francisco Campus of the University of Zaragoza, with workshops, experiments, and scientific demonstrations aimed at school groups and families. Institutions such as the University of Zaragoza (UNIZAR) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)—through its research centers and institutes—, the Aragon Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), San Jorge University (USJ), the Aragon Health Research Institute Foundation (IIS Aragón), Ibercivis—a promoter of citizen science projects—, and other scientific entities will showcase their work to the public with activities like these:

• Microscopic observation of cells and discovery of human anatomy

• Chemistry, physics and biotechnology workshops aimed at young people and families

• Introduction to quantum computing and artificial intelligence

• Experimental activities in nutrition, microbiota, crops and environment

• Scientific games, challenge tests and educational activities

This is an initiative designed to make science accessible and show in a practical way how it influences daily life, from health and the environment to energy, technology and the food of the future.

El investigador Borja del Carmelo Gracia The activity will be presented by the IIS Aragón. “Analyzing the microvasculature”Using a capillaroscope—a magnifying glass with light—the smallest blood vessels in the body can be observed through analysis of the nail bed (the area where the nail meets the skin).

Other outreach activities throughout Aragon

Throughout the week, citizens will be able to enjoy a wide range of programming distributed throughout the Aragonese territory, which includes:

• Experimental workshops and scientific activities for educational centers

• Talks, information sessions and meetings with researchers

• Guided scientific visits and experiences in institutions and laboratories

• Participatory activities for students and families

• Race for Science, combining sport, community and outreach

• Performance by the RISArchers-Unizar group, monologist researchers

• These activities will take place in different municipalities of Aragon, ensuring decentralized and accessible dissemination.

What's new in this edition

Audiovisual content will be launched on social media and on the Aragón Investiga website, expanding the reach and accessibility of science outreach. These short videos feature researchers from various centers and campuses showcasing their work, their questions, and their passion for science. From nanomedicine and quantum computing to heritage, public health, nutrition, and astronomy, this content brings us closer to the research that drives progress and helps us better understand the world.

New developments in the School Science Championship

As in previous years, the School Science Championship will continue. However, this year it includes a significant change: it will now be part of the educational programs offered, allowing for greater integration with the teaching plans of participating schools. Furthermore, to facilitate student participation and better align it with the academic calendar, the dates have been changed to dates closer to Easter. This adjustment aims to harmonize the activity with the rest of the school year and encourage broader and more organized participation from schools.

Highlight of the Week: Aragón Investiga Awards Gala

And as the grand finale to this celebration of science, the 15th Aragón Investiga Awards Gala will take place on November 19th at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Caja Rural de Aragón. This event recognizes the work, career achievements, and commitment of the researchers and teams who contribute to the advancement of knowledge in Aragón.

Science Week brings research closer to the public, fosters interest in science, and strengthens the culture of knowledge in Aragon. We want science to be accessible, participatory, and connected to the present and future needs of our society.

Source: Aragon Today