BelSU Students and Teachers Participate in the Science 0+ Festival

First-year students at Belgorod National Research University (BelSU) majoring in Biotechnology participated in a master class on intravital imaging techniques for biological samples, led by Elena Grebtsova, Associate Professor in the Department of Biology. During the session, students learned how to prepare native specimens and gained hands-on experience using a research-grade inverted microscope and data documentation software. They completed a research assignment focused on the morphological identification of cell types in insect hemolymph, providing them with a solid foundation for future work with high-tech equipment and a new perspective on cell biology.

The Department of Food Technology organized an engaging “Tasting Quest,” which consisted of several experimental components. In the first part, participants were presented with four samples representing different flavours – sweet, sour, salty, and neutral – each assigned a unique code. Using their senses, participants attempted to identify the flavours, allowing them to assess their tasting abilities and the sensitivity of their taste buds. The second part of the experiment aimed to enhance olfactory sensitivity, where participants described coded samples of ten different odours. This exercise revealed that their ability to articulate scents was even more nuanced than their tasting skills. The quest also included a spice-tasting segment, further showcasing the students’ tasting expertise.

Instructors Natalia Avtina and Elena Timoshenko from the Pharmaceutical Technology Department conducted a master class on creating sachets with essential oils. Pharmacy students, guided by senior lecturer Yulia Sangalova, participated in the “Pharmaanalytics Laboratory” workshop, where they stepped into the role of market detectives. They learned to interpret market indicators, navigate a vast assortment of medications through segmentation, and even calculate a “novelty index” to determine how quickly a pharmacy's product line is updated. “Specific examples, interactive tasks, and a gentle introduction to the profession of marketing analyst ensured the success of this event. Judging by the students’ sparkling eyes and enthusiastic engagement, we demonstrated that market analysis is not just about boring numbers; it’s an engaging process vital to the modern pharmacist,” said Sangalova.

Lyudmila Deineka, Associate Professor in the General Chemistry Department, held a master class titled “Preparation of Supramolecular Carotenoid Complexes” for master’s students in Chemistry. Participants explored modern methods for synthesizing and analysing carotenoid-based supramolecular structures while discussing their potential applications in biotechnology, medicine, and the food industry. This innovative technology enables the conversion of biologically active carotenoids into dry forms.

Undergraduate students, alongside peers from Belgorod schools, participated in another master class led by Irina Blinova, Associate Professor of General Chemistry, and Elena Oleynits, Assistant Professor. Titled “Chemical Properties and Preparation of Main Classes of Inorganic Compounds,” this session allowed students to learn about various classes of inorganic substances through laboratory experiments focused on identifying and preparing oxides, salts, acids, and bases. Events like these not only popularize chemistry but also contribute to the development of practical experimental research skills.

The series of educational events at the BelSU Institute of Pharmacy, Chemistry, and Biology during the 13th Regional Science Festival exemplifies the university’s commitment to fostering scientific knowledge and practical skills among its students.