At the heart of the event was the question of how the interaction between pharmaceutical process engineering, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence can lead to the development of personalized, more effective, and at the same time affordable healthcare. The event was opened by Prof. Dr. Arno Kwade and Prof. Dr. Carsten Schilde. Prof. Kwade presented the university’s wide range of initiatives to promote young scientific talent and emphasized programs that spark an early interest in the natural sciences—among them the Children’s University, where young participants can experience science firsthand. Prof. Schilde then addressed the growing importance of artificial intelligence in research and teaching. He illustrated how modern tools are opening up new ways of learning and working, and how these are already being integrated into scientific processes and academic education.
Afterward, participants were divided into six groups, each representing one of the STEM subjects:
Mathematics
Mathematics was experienced in a very practical way with support from Emanuela Montefrancesco (PVZ) and Hainrich-Andreas Schneider from RoboFunktion GmbH. The students learned how an industrial robot works and controlled it using artificial intelligence. They tested how the robot moves and transports objects, experiencing firsthand how mathematical concepts are applied in modern technology.
Computer Science
The computer science group from the Institute for Particle Technology (iPAT) introduced the basics of artificial intelligence in a playful way. Guided by Christoph Thon and Trung Anh Nguyen, participants learned how AI works and where it is used in everyday life. Using image generation, they explored how AI learns from examples. Afterwards, the students developed their own video game concepts in groups and implemented them using AI tools—providing a hands-on insight into collaboration between humans and machines.
Biology
Biology offered fascinating insights into the world of biotechnology. In an age-appropriate introduction, Jan-Angelus Meyer from the Institute of Bioprocess Engineering explained how natural processes are used to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients. Participants learned about antibody production in bioreactors, worked with modern microscopes, and practiced basic lab techniques such as pipetting. A special highlight was staining and examining real cells, as well as conducting a viability test after treatment with antibodies.
Chemistry
In chemistry, participants experimented and discovered. Together with Christopher Heidenreich from the Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy (IPhTB), they produced and tested a base for effervescent powder. Using simple materials, they built a functioning “lemon battery” and explored chemical reactions in everyday life. They also compared different essential oils, training their sense of smell—an exciting combination of science and sensory experience.
Physics
In the STEM group “Physics,” led by Hazal Kutluk, Jeroen Bugter, Jozef Di Fiore, and Alexandra Hegemann, participants gained practical experience with modern bioengineering techniques by creating simple microfluidic devices and exploring 3D printing. They also worked with hydrogels and observed fluorescently stained biological cells under the microscope, offering especially younger participants a vivid and exciting glimpse into the microscopic world.
Engineering
In the engineering group, participants could become actively involved. They pressed tablets from powders and discovered how even complex shapes can be created. A clear Lego model was used to explain how an atomic force microscope works, and participants built their own “samples.” In addition, the use of a 3D printer demonstrated how individualized medicines of the future could be produced—from conventional tablets to creative shapes. Support was provided by Jan Henrik Finke, Henry Brauns, Ingo Kampen, and Patrick Fuchs from the Institute for Particle Technology (iPAT).
Working in small groups, the students explored various stations designed in collaboration with university institutes and industry partners. There, they were able to experiment, develop models, and experience scientific questions in a practical way. The stations were supported by Anna-Lina Kelsch and Miriam Sprick from the Institute of Thermodynamics (ift). The afternoon provided a varied balance to the intensive research program: in two workshops—Australian football and hip-hop dance—movement, teamwork, and creativity took center stage. This combination of physical activity and shared experience rounded off the day and provided renewed energy. Future Day 2026 at the PVZ impressively demonstrated how closely science, creativity, and collaboration are interconnected.
The event made it clear that the future of medicine and technology thrives on interdisciplinary thinking, openness, and diversity—and that this is precisely where the opportunity lies to inspire the next generation of researchers.