AG Corneal Stem Cells (A05) Participates in UniStem Day 2026
The research group AG Corneal Stem Cells (SFB 1607 project A05) proudly participated in this year’s UniStem Day, held on March 20, 2026. UniStem Day is an international outreach initiative dedicated to raising awareness and fostering education about stem cell research among school students. The event takes place simultaneously across universities and research institutions in numerous countries worldwide, including Germany (organised by German Stem Cell Network – GSCN), Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Australia, among others.
UniStem Day aims to provide students with direct exposure to cutting-edge research and to promote understanding of both the scientific and ethical dimensions of stem cell science. Through lectures, laboratory visits, and interactive sessions, participants gain insight into how stem cells are shaping the future of medicine.
As part of the program, AG Corneal Stem Cells welcomed students from the 11th school year into their laboratory environment, offering them a unique opportunity to familiarise themselves with the role of stem cells in corneal biology and regenerative medicine. The students were introduced to key applications of stem cell-based therapies for ocular surface diseases and gained hands-on exposure to fundamental laboratory techniques.
The session was led by Dr. Thomas Volatier (project A05), Ms. Johanna Mann (project A05), and Ms. Sina Schäfer (project A03), who guided participants through a short lecture, a lab demonstration and interactive discussions. Students actively engaged in the activities, enhancing their understanding of experimental workflows and the practical aspects of biomedical research.
Beyond technical training, the event also served as a platform for dissemination and dialogue, encouraging students to consider future careers in science and to critically reflect on the societal impact of stem cell research with a focus on cornea health.
AG Corneal Stem Cells is pleased to have contributed to this global initiative and remains committed to science communication and educational outreach. Participation in UniStem Day underscores the group’s dedication to inspiring the next generation of researchers and advancing public understanding of regenerative medicine.
Contact:
AG Corneal Stem Cells (project A05)
Dr Maria Notara: maria.notara@uk-koeln.de