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    The laboratory instead of the classroom: The students at the Jiří Orten Gymnasium were exploring cells and biomaterials at a glance

    Popularisation of Science Published on 08. 07. 2026 Reading time Reading time: 2 minutes
    What do scientists really do? How can we create 3D structures using cells or assemble our own bioreactor? Students from the Gymnasium of Jiří Orten in Kutná Hora had the chance to find answers to these questions during a hands-on workshop held at the end of the school year and organised by a team of scientists from the Department of Neuroregeneration at the BIOCEV research centre.

    Led by the experienced instructor Yuriy Petrenko and his colleagues Jarmila Havelková, Eliška Fialová and Marharyta Kurianova, students could explore bioengineering and cell biology. The programme linked short lectures with experimentation, allowing participants to experience firsthand the specific methods commonly used in laboratories.


    The experimental portion focused on working with yeast, an essential model organism in biological research. Students observed its metabolic activity under different conditions and subsequently attempted to create 3D biomaterials in which the yeast was encapsulated using collagen and alginate. This gave them a basic understanding of tissue engineering and biomaterial development.


    Another part of the program was dedicated to bioreactors. Students learned how they operate and discovered how 3D printing could help design and manufacture specific components for assembling a functional device capable of cell cultivation.


    In the final discussion, the young scientists openly discussed their paths to science and research, their everyday work in the lab, and opportunities for higher education. This gave students a glimpse into what a scientific career entails, and they were able to ask any questions they had.

    This event was made possible by the European Inventor Network (open in a new window), as part of the European Patent Office grant focused on the popularisation of science, technology and innovation amongst young people. The grant helps introduce young people to modern scientific approaches and inspires a new generation of future scientists.