Experience the world of biomedical research as Labs Unlocked opens the doors of the Translational Research Institute (TRI) and SPARQ-ed for students in grades 9-12 with a special hands-on workshop for World Science Festival Brisbane.

SPARQ-ed is a unique biomedical educational program for high school students, delivered through a collaboration between the Department of Education and TRI. The facility provides access to cutting-edge research equipment where students will have the opportunity to learn laboratory skills, discuss Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) career pathways with TRI-based research scientists and be part of the TRI ecosystem driven towards Exceptional Science, Healthier Lives.

This year’s session will include:

• Students will expose HeLa cells (an immortalised cell line used in scientific research) to varying concentrations to determine conclusions about osmolarity of solutions.
• Develop skills in pipetting liquids, cell biology and microscopy.
• Meet a Researcher – learn about their career journey in STEM and a chance to ask them questions.
• Tour of TRI – explore the world-class research facilities that TRI has to offer.