Eighth Graders from Eichendorffschule Visit FAU Solar Laboratories

Photo: Gerd Gätzschmann

Recently, students from the eighth grade of Eichendorffschule in Erlangen visited the laboratories of the FAU Solar. The visit was part of the “Gemeinsam” project, which aims to inspire young people for natural sciences and modern research. The project is led by the School Museum at FAU and cooperates with four middle schools in Erlangen and Nuremberg. Over the course of a school year, eighth-graders participate in special lessons and excursions to different research and industrial facilities. At the heart of the project at the moment is climate change. The students are divided into groups, each of which investigates a different aspect of the topic, like the effects of climate change on the oceans, connection to mobility, impact on soil. In addition to learning about climate change, the students also gain insights into the work of researchers and scientists. They visit laboratories, and have the opportunity to ask questions and talk to experts in the field. In the frame of the project pupils visited FAU Solar, namely the Chair of Materials Science in Erlangen led by Professor Christoph J. Brabec. The students were given a tour of the laboratories, and learned about the emerging research in solar cell technology. They also tried their hand at making solar cells themselves.

The “Gemeinsam” project is a valuable opportunity for students to learn about climate change and to explore potential careers in industry and science. The project is also an important way to connect researchers with next generation of the broader public and inspire young people to pursue a career in this field. The visit of the students to the research laboratories was also described in an article in the Sonntagsblatt magazine.

Photo: Gerd Gätzschmann