As part of European Researchers’ Night 2026, candidate Clara Masó once again visited Els Castanyers School in Viladrau to bring science closer to young students. For the second consecutive year, pupils from 3rd, 4th and 5th grade took part in interactive workshops designed to introduce them to scientific research, health, hygiene, microorganisms and the scientific method through hands-on activities and discussion.

During the first visit, Clara introduced pupils to several key scientific concepts, including the scientific method, the contributions of women in science, how wounds heal and why some wounds fail to heal, advanced wound therapies used in clinical practice, and her own research on punch skin grafting as a promising technique for the treatment of chronic wounds.

To complement the theoretical component, pupils participated in three hands-on workshops: a UV light activity to reveal invisible dirt on hands and surfaces, a handwashing experiment using agar plates to explore bacterial growth before and after hand hygiene, and a simulation of punch skin grafting using pigskin to demonstrate the technique in an engaging and understandable way.

During the second visit, the agar plates, which had been incubated at the University of Vic, were used to observe the results of the experiment. Pupils examined bacterial growth using microscopes and discussed the differences observed between the samples. They were then guided through the process of preparing their own mini scientific article.

The workshops aimed to spark curiosity, promote critical thinking and help pupils better understand how science contributes to everyday life. The repeated collaboration

between the university and Els Castanyers School reflects a shared commitment to science outreach and to inspiring future generations of researchers through engaging and accessible educational activities.