Leicester scientists aim to inspire the next generation
The Cube
Artificial intelligence is the focus of a three-day event for Leicestershire youngsters aimed at engaging them in STEM subjects.
The mobile science lab, developed and created by science and technology company, Merck, has been at Charnwood Campus Science and Technology Park since Wednesday. It has already been visited by hundreds of pupils from schools across the county including Madani Boys’ and Girls’ Schools, Beaumont Leys, in Leicester, and Limehurst Academy in Loughborough.
Among those delivering innovative and practical-based lessons to pupils in years 7 and 8, is a group of scientists from the University of Leicester. They are exploring the difference between AI photos and real photos to understand and recognise authenticity, the ways in which our brains and AI learn about the world around us and model how AI uses pattern recognition and machine learning to operate self-driving cars.
Dr Lynne Howells, from the University’s Institute of Precision Health, said: “We’re delighted to be part of this initiative to encourage young people to engage with STEM subjects. We know that the use of artificial intelligence is vast and continuing to grow, with its uses already proven in the development of new technologies and health care innovations, among many others.
“This fascinating area gives us a chance to explore all aspects of STEM – Science Technology, Engineering and Maths – in such a manner that we hope to harness their enthusiasm for a career that uses one or all of these in ways that relate to the world around them.”
In addition, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre’s lifestyle team and School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences outreach team is also supporting the wider STEM engagement programme across all three days. It is focusing on health and topics related to genetics, with fun hands-on experiments.
Launched in North America in 2017, the Merck Curiosity Cube program, which is now solar powered, has expanded, traveling to schools, science museums and public events across Europe since 2022.
Stefanie Rammer, Merck’s Curiosity Cube Program Lead for Europe, said: “With Merck’s Curiosity Cube program, our mission is to spark curiosity for the next generation of scientists around the world. Through hands-on learning, students can engage in real-world science experiments with real-life scientists, learning first-hand about STEM careers right in their own communities.
“Watching students have their ‘aha!’ moment is the most rewarding part of the day in the Curiosity Cube, and we’re thrilled to partner with the University of Leicester to help make this possible.”
Gosai Khrais, Commercial and Marketing Director of the Charnwood Campus Science Innovation and Technology Park added: “Charnwood Campus is delighted to be hosting the Merck Curiosity Cube this year. We are passionate about working with local schools to energise the next generation of scientists, and know that the youngsters will have an amazing day learning about how science shapes our everyday lives.”
Loughborough MP Dr Jeevun Sandher visited the Curiosity Cube today (Thursday). He said it was great to meet the "enthusiastic" students, adding: "Congratulations to the Science Park and its partners for bringing this fantastic initiative to Loughborough. This experience is sparking curiosity in young people and opening doors to highly skilled future careers and helping to ensure our region remains a hub for life sciences, talent and opportunity."