Bojos per la Física 2025: A Journey into Physics and Nanotechnology for Curious Young Minds

by Chema Arcos

ICN2 took part once again in the "Bojos per la Física" (Crazy about Physics) programme, bringing cutting-edge nanotechnology and research closer to high school students.

Over the past few months, ICN2 has welcomed students taking part in the 'Bojos per la Física' course, one of the most prestigious educational programmes in Catalonia. Organised by the Catalunya-La Pedrera Foundation, ICN2 and IFAE, this initiative aims to inspire young pre-university students by offering them direct experience of working at leading research centres.

Throughout the course, the students have had the opportunity to learn first-hand about the cutting-edge science being developed at various Catalan research centres and gain valuable insight into researchers' work. They were able to actively participate in exciting experiments and scientific processes.

Four thematic sessions were held at ICN2, enabling students to explore some of the significant challenges and opportunities presented by nanotechnology.

Working with electrons and nanoparticles: During this session, participants explored the world of nanoparticles, learning about their composition, applications in fields such as biomedicine and engineering, and the use of powerful electron microscopes for observation, which are essential in nanoscience research.
Nanoelectronics: In this session, students were introduced to the manufacturing processes of nano-scale devices. Through a combination of theory and practice, they learned how the design of these devices affects their electrical properties, and how they could transform the electronics of the future.
Water and nano-structured surfaces. During this session, the Bojos explored the properties of water and examined how surfaces modified at the nanoscale can affect its behaviour. Attendees also received an introduction to the important role that nanotechnology plays in developing new functional materials.
The role of biosensors. The final session of ICN2 focused on biosensors, exploring what they are, how they work, and their applications. Students discovered how these devices are revolutionising fields such as medicine and the environment, from the first sensors to the most innovative technologies.

In addition to visiting ICN2 and IFAE, students had the opportunity to visit other research centres, including ICMAB, ICFO, the UAB and ALBA Synchrotron.

In June, the course concluded with a joint closing ceremony organised by the foundation. This event brought together all participants of the 'Bojos per la Ciència' programmes, encompassing several different courses, to celebrate their motivation, dedication, and scientific curiosity.

At ICN2, we are firmly committed to science education and inspiring future researchers. We are looking forward to the next edition!