The Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM IST, successfully organized a two-day hands-on outreach workshop titled “A Practical Microscopy Workshop for Aspiring Young Explorers” on July 7–8, 2025. Conducted at G.N. Ramachandran Hall, the Microbiology Lab, B301 and CV Raman Research Park, the event introduced 37 high school students (Classes 10–12) to the fundamentals and applications of microscopy through interactive theory and practical sessions.
Day 1 focused on microscopy principles, slide preparation, and observations using compound, bright-field, dark-field, and phase-contrast microscopes in the Department of Biotechnology. Participants also explored image analysis using ImageJ software, learning basic image processing and interpretation. The day concluded with a guided campus tour, covering SRMIST’s premier facilities such as the Sports Complex, Indoor Stadium, and Dr. Parivendar Aquatic Complex.
Day 2 featured demonstrations of advanced techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Confocal Microscopy, and Fluorescence Microscopy at CV Raman Research Park. Students also toured the Department of Biotechnology’s core laboratories—Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Cell Culture, Analytical Instrumentation Labs—and the Central Research Facilities.
Well-trained B.Tech Biotechnology student volunteers actively supported the sessions, simultaneously enhancing their own technical and communication skills. Industry-sponsored stalls in the Bioengineering Block fostered academia–industry interaction and introduced participants to the latest scientific tools.
The event concluded with a valedictory function, certificate distribution, and participant feedback session. The workshop successfully fostered scientific curiosity, strengthened school–academia engagement, and inspired students to pursue further exploration in science and research.
