YWIB-Greater Montreal: Science Fun – The Colour of Life’s Molecules

On February 27, 2024, YWIB-Greater Montreal Chapter once again hosted this in-person event at Concordia University’s Chemistry and Physics Department to encourage young women to explore career opportunities and fields of study in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Twenty-five Grade 9 students from Sacred Heart School, ages 14 to 15, participated, together with Krystal Lapierre, their Science teacher. Seventeen very enthusiastic graduate students volunteered their time for this event, with Technical Supervisor Maria Dochia leading its organization at Concordia. There were short introductions of WIB/YWIB, and the Chemistry Department Chair, Paul Joyce, welcomed the group. Participants enjoyed a presentation on DNA and gene expression, followed by a chance to put what they learned into practice by extracting DNA from strawberries. The day’s highlight happened when the physics students demonstrated how to make ice cream using liquid nitrogen, a treat that everyone enjoyed tasting. We want to thank our organizers from the Concordia University Chemistry Department, Maria Dochia, and all the volunteer graduate students for taking time out of their schedules to support this event.