What does cancer research look like up close? What technologies do scientists use today, and what does everyday work in a modern biomedical laboratory actually involve? Nearly 200 secondary school students in the Czech Republic had the opportunity to find answers to these questions during the first half of 2026, thanks to a series of interactive workshops organized by the National Institute for Cancer Research (NICR).
Between February and June, NICR hosted 23 hands-on workshops focused on different areas of biomedical and cancer research. The programme welcomed 197 students, primarily in their third and fourth years of secondary education, from grammar schools and vocational institutions not only in Prague, but also from towns such as Benešov, Beroun, Kladno, Kutná Hora, Říčany, and Hradec Králové.
Science beyond the classroom
Rather than learning only through lectures, students were invited directly into real research environments. They worked with laboratory equipment, explored key methods used in contemporary cancer research, and discussed study pathways and career opportunities with active scientists.
The workshops covered four thematic areas led by leading Czech research institutions:
- Tumour Immunity – When Defence Becomes the Enemy
(Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University) - A Microscopic View into Cancer Cells
(Laboratory of Cancer Cell Architecture, Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University) - DNA Detective: A Mysterious Species Under the Lens – Is Sequencing More Accurate Than Microscopy?
(Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences) - Cancer Cell, Reveal Yourself! – Polymer Materials for Image-Guided Surgery
(Biomedical Polymers Department, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences)
All available workshop sessions were fully booked, highlighting the strong and sustained interest among students in experiencing science first-hand.
Inspiring the next generation of scientists
“One of NICR’s key missions is to inspire young people who may one day contribute to Czech science, research, and healthcare,” said Aleksi Šedo, Director of NICR. “We are glad to offer them the opportunity to experience a real scientific environment, meet experts, and gain direct insight into the work behind new discoveries in cancer research. It is especially encouraging that many participants are now considering further studies or careers in biomedical fields.”
Strong feedback from students
Each workshop included an anonymous feedback survey. This year, 119 students participated, marking the highest response rate so far. The workshops received an overall rating of 9.06 out of 10, matching last year’s result.
More than half of respondents also indicated that they are now considering a future career in biomedical research. Students most frequently highlighted the opportunity to work with real laboratory equipment, the approachable and supportive instructors, and the chance to see how scientists work on a daily basis.
“Every meeting with secondary school students reminds us how many talented and motivated young people are growing up around us,” added Aleksi Šedo. “Their questions, ideas, and enthusiasm inspire not only them, but also our researchers and instructors. This mutual exchange of inspiration is, in my view, one of the greatest values of these workshops.”
He also expressed gratitude to all participating researchers and partner schools: “Their willingness to go beyond their regular duties and share their expertise gives students a unique opportunity to experience science in practice. I would also like to thank the teachers and school leadership, who encourage students to explore natural sciences and support their interest in future studies and scientific careers.”
Looking ahead
Following the success of the spring programme, NICR plans to continue the workshops in autumn 2026 with additional sessions for secondary school students. A pilot seminar for biology and chemistry teachers is also being prepared. It will focus on current topics in cancer research, offer practical ideas for classroom teaching, and strengthen cooperation between research institutions and secondary schools.
Through these activities, NICR continues to expand its educational outreach and aims to foster a deeper interest in science among both students and educators.
