Researchers from the PHOTOTHERAPORT project once again joined Latvia’s nationwide Shadow Day initiative, welcoming students to the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS) and offering them a first-hand experience of scientific research and innovation.
On 1st April, researchers from the PHOTOTHERAPORT project participated again in Latvia’s annual Shadow Day, a nationwide educational initiative that allows young people to observe professionals in their daily work and gain a better understanding of potential career paths.
Each year, Shadow Day connects students with experts from a wide range of sectors, helping them make more informed decisions about their future studies and professions through direct experience and interaction.
As part of this initiative, the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS), a partner of the PHOTOTHERAPORT project, welcomed 48 students from primary and secondary schools representing 13 cities across Latvia. Most participants travelled from Riga, while others came from cities including Ogre and Valmiera.
Among the students visiting LIOS, two spent part of the day in the Biotechnology Laboratory, where they were introduced to ongoing research activities. One student had the opportunity to shadow Alessio Perazzoli, PhD student in Rossella Castagna’s research group and member of the PHOTOTHERAPORT consortium.
During the four-hour visit, the student was introduced to the daily work of a researcher and gained insights into protein structure, photophysics and biomedical research. As part of a hands-on outreach activity, she explored the concepts of fluorescence and upconversion through specially designed molecules embedded in a small PDMS device.
Using infrared light, the student observed how otherwise invisible wavelengths could excite the molecules and generate visible coloured emission. The demonstration provided an engaging and accessible introduction to fundamental photophysical principles while showcasing some of the scientific concepts that underpin the PHOTOTHERAPORT project.
The visit also offered an opportunity to learn more about the project’s objectives and how light-responsive technologies are being developed to create innovative therapeutic approaches for neurological and sensory disorders.
By participating in initiatives such as Shadow Day, PHOTOTHERAPORT researchers continue to promote scientific outreach and inspire future generations to explore careers in science. Through direct interaction with researchers and hands-on activities, students gain a valuable glimpse into the world of research and the exciting possibilities offered by emerging fields such as photopharmacology and light-based therapeutics.
