Monday, 20 November 2023
Mad for Physics Program closes with a celebratory event involving the students and their families
The "Mad for Physics" program, part of the "Bojos per la Ciència" initiative by Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera, concluded its 2023 edition with a memorable event at the Urgell Civic Center on Saturday, November 18. The event celebrated the achievements of the 25 young participants and their families.
Nando Oterino, Head of Programs in Knowledge and Research, and Culture at Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera, initiated the event with a welcoming address. The foundation has been instrumental in the success of the "Bojos per la Ciència" programs, including "Mad for Physics," coordinated by ICN2 and IFAE.
Sebastián Grisnchpun (Head of Communication at IFAE), Àlex Argemí (Scientific Communication Coordinator at ICN2), and Lucía Castillo (Outreach Officer at ICFO), joined the introductions. They praised the dedication of the young participants and thanked their parents for supporting their involvement in the 16 practical sessions at renowned centers like IC2, IFAE, ICFO, Alba, UAB, and ICMAB.
Participants shared their experiences, anecdotes, and the science they learned, highlighting the friendships formed during the program. A standout moment was Esteve Ribas, a doctoral student at ICN2 Atomic Manipulation and Spectroscopy Group, sharing his journey from high school to doctoral studies. He was also a participant of tghe educational programmes from the Fundació La Pedrera back in his high-school years. His experience, especially using atomic force microscopes for material study, resonated with the audience.
The event not only marked the end of the 2023 edition but also set an enthusiastic tone for the upcoming 2024 program selection process, proving the enduring impact and success of the "Mad for Physics" initiative.