Scientific Career Day 2023 Inspires Students

More than 50 enthusiastic future scientists visited the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience to participate in the organization’s annual Science Career Panel on October 14, 2023. Students toured the institute, talked with researchers, and then asked questions during a panel discussion with scientists at varying stages of their careers.

“One of MPFI’s core values is community engagement, to inspire a love of science and give students the confidence to pursue STEM careers,” said Head of Outreach and Advancement Ilaria Drago. “Meeting scientific role models can spark curiosity within students and inspire them to unlock their boundless potential.”

This year’s panelists were Nino Mancini, Postdoctoral Fellow; Goksu Oz, Ph.D. Student; and Hidehiko Inagaki, Research Group Leader. They answered students’ questions, shared what inspired them to pursue a career in science, and discussed the educational and research backgrounds that got them to where they are today.

Science Career Day is an annual event that allows high school students to meet and interact with Max Planck scientists. Panelists traditionally include scientists who are in different stages of their training, from Ph.D. students to research group leaders. Questions range from which classes to take to curiosity about the day-to-day routine of a scientist. This is the 8th year MPFI has held the event.

Participating schools included Park Vista Community High School, Santaluces Community High School, The Benjamin School, Jupiter Community High School, A.W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, and Palm Beach Lakes High School.

To learn more about education outreach programs at Max Planck Florida, click here.