IIS La Fe promotes science outreach by funding two projects led by its research staff

The selected projects stand out for their innovative approach and their commitment to social inclusion, science education and the promotion of healthy habits. Both initiatives rely on participatory methodologies and playful tools to bring biomedical research closer to society, particularly young audiences.

The call is part of the 1st Activity Programme of the Unit for Scientific Culture and Innovation (UCC+I) of IIS La Fe, funded by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT), which recognises the centre as an active agent in promoting scientific culture. Each project will receive €1,500 in funding for its development.

Ciencia Viva: an inclusive laboratory to inspire scientific vocations

The project "Ciencia Viva. Bringing research where it matters", led by Mar Collado Pérez, predoctoral researcher in the Molecular, Cellular and Genomic Biomedicine research group at IIS La Fe, proposes the creation of a scientific laboratory aimed at children and adolescents in situations of social vulnerability, in collaboration with the Saó Day Centre of the Itaka Escolapios Foundation.

Developed together with the Pharmacogenetics and Gene Therapy Unit of IIS La Fe and the centre's educational team, the project will allow participants to explore concepts related to rare and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease, through practical sessions using adapted materials (magnifying glasses, Petri dishes and test strips).

The aim is to inspire scientific vocations through an inclusive approach, bringing biomedical research closer to groups that have traditionally had limited access to such experiences. The laboratory is conceived as a stable and replicable structure in other centres within the Itaka Escolapios network, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.

DEGAME: a board game to understand the effects of endocrine disruptors

The project "Snakes and Ladders: How to reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors (DEGAME)", led by Laia Tolosa Pardo, head of the Experimental Hepatology research group at IIS La Fe, proposes an educational experience based on a board game to raise awareness about the effects of certain chemical substances present in everyday products.

Through an interactive board, participants move forward when adopting healthy practices -such as using BPA-free products or prioritising fresh food- and move backwards when engaging in risk behaviours -such as excessive use of plastics or cosmetics containing potentially harmful compounds-.

The game promotes active and accessible learning about endocrine disruptors, substances capable of interfering with the hormonal system and affecting health.

Designed to adapt to different age groups and educational contexts, DEGAME can be implemented both in schools and in community awareness activities, expanding its reach and impact as a health education tool.