During “Forsche Schüler Tag” on April 23, 2026, a group of nine students at the FLI gained insights into aging research. In particular, they learned about model organisms—mice and the turquoise cichlid—and their significance in research. Through various hands-on activities and aging simulations, the topic was presented in a clear and practical way.
On April 23, 2026, the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) opened its doors to interested students as part of “Forsche Schüler Tag.” In parallel with the nationwide Girls’ Day and Boys’ Day, a total of 96 participants at the Beutenberg Campus took the opportunity to learn first-hand about current research topics and experience research firsthand. They had traveled from many parts of Thuringia and beyond: Bamberg, Berlin, Erfurt, Hanau, Jena, Kahla, Leinefelde, Meiningen, Merseburg, Neustadt, Schmölln, Weimar, and Worms. At the same time, the event serves as a career orientation day, where students could learn about potential career paths and training opportunities.
At the FLI, it was all about aging – and above all, getting involved. Nine interested young people gained exciting insights into our research on-site and got hands-on: Through short presentations, they learned why and how we age, what a role genes and the environment play in this process, and what our research groups are currently working on. The animal facilities at the FLI provided particularly illustrative examples of research on the model organism mouse and the short-lived turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri). The participants learned what role these animals play in aging research.
There were also practical insights: How do you set up cages and aquariums in a species-appropriate manner? What kind of food do laboratory animals need? How do you ensure they are engaged and have as natural a living environment as possible? In addition, the daily health checks were explained.
Under the microscope, the participants were able to examine special food offerings for N. furzeri. A particular highlight among the hands-on activities was collecting and sorting fish eggs on turf plates—typical tasks in the daily routine of animal caretakers in fish husbandry. The focus was also on the care and maintenance of mice, another important model organism in aging research that plays a role in many of the institute's experiments. It wasn't just about watching—participants got to try things out, ask questions, and contribute their own ideas. Additionally, a demonstration was given on how mice are marked to allow for clear identification.
The hands-on stations concluded with various aging simulations. Here, participants could experience for themselves what aging might be like by, for example, having senses such as hearing, touch, and grasping, as well as smell, restricted. This led to many “aha” moments. The program was rounded out by a tour through the modern research building, with information about the architecture and the art objects inside.
The students had a lot of fun; two of them even want to pursue research themselves later on—perhaps even returning to the FLI for an internship.
A big thank you to all our colleagues who organized this day with such dedication and made it so interesting for the students!
The next “Forsche Schüler Tag” is scheduled to take place on April 22, 2027—we’re already looking forward to seeing many new interested faces.
