Open Labs at NTUA
In March 2025, NTUA hosted its first three-day long, large-scale visitor program, welcoming over 5,000 guests—mainly high school students—for guided tours across 43 laboratories, with the aim of establishing it as an annual tradition. As part of this NTUA Open Labs initiative, the Biotechnology Laboratory opened its doors, offering visitors an engaging experience in cutting-edge research and real-world applications of biotechnology.
During the event, students had the opportunity to explore critical environmental challenges addressed through biotechnology research. A key focus of the visit was the impact of plastic pollution, highlighting the urgent need to move away from single-use plastics and adopt sustainable waste management strategies. Researchers introduced students to various approaches for plastic waste management, including traditional recycling and innovative upcycling techniques that contribute to a circular economy.
A highlight of the visit was the live demonstration of a fed-batch yeast cultivation process in a 2.5L bioreactor, providing students with firsthand exposure to biotechnological methods used in industrial applications. Seeing biotechnology in action helped them understand the role of microorganisms in sustainable bioprocesses and their potential to transform waste into valuable resources.
With 196 visitors engaging with the Biotechnology Laboratory, this initiative played a crucial role in sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. The NTUA Open Labs continue to serve as an important platform for bridging academic research with society, demonstrating the real-world impact of biotechnology in addressing environmental challenges.
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