Dr Camilo Mesa Takes Part as a Teacher in the Joves i Ciència (Youth and Science) Outreach Programme

by Jose M Arcos

During his course, which took place at the MónNatura Pirineus nature centre, the students learned about the important role that nanoscience and materials science can play in the development of "green" fuels and more sustainable energy sources.

The first phase of the Joves i Ciència excellence programme, organised by the Fundació Catalunya-La Pedrera and aimed at fourth-year ESO students (15-year-olds) interested in science and research, took place between 25 June and 7 July. During these days, the participants had the chance to enjoy different courses on scientific and technological topics at the MónNatura Pirineus nature centre. ICN2 researcher Dr Camilo Mesa (Nanoelectrocatalysis and Sustainable Chemistry Group) was one of the scientists responsible for organising and teaching these sessions.

Joves i Ciència is an outreach programme that promotes scientific and technological vocations among high school students through different phases. In addition to these sessions in the Pyrenees, students who take part in this initiative will have the opportunity to participate in short stays (1-2 weeks) in different research centres. In this way, they will be able to experience science first-hand and develop their talents and skill

Dr Camilo Mesa's course in Artificial Photosynthesis focuses on the importance of nanoscience and materials science in facing the climate crisis. Participating students were able to learn how to mimic the natural photosynthesis of plants in the laboratory, aiming to produce sustainable fuels and reduce the environmental impact of fossil fuel use.