For many of our first-year students, the end of the academic year did not mark the end of learning. Instead, it opened the door to a series of scientific internships that allowed them to explore scientific research, technology and innovation beyond the classroom.
This year, 30 students participated in internships hosted by research institutions, universities and educational organisations across the region and beyond. Together with the nine students who completed a programme with Ecubes, these opportunities form part of an initiative developed by UWC Adriatic’s Science Outreach Coordinator and Chemistry teacher, Dimitrina Trendafilova, to provide students with meaningful exposure to real-world research environments.
These internships offered an extraordinary range of experiences. At the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste, two students worked on a machine-learning project to develop an “electronic nose” capable of identifying different substances through the analysis of chemical signatures. Combining experimental science, coding and artificial intelligence, the project introduced students to cutting-edge technologies while giving them responsibility for every stage of the research process, from data collection to testing and analysis.
Other students joined researchers at SISSA, where they explored the relationship between astronomical phenomena and wine production through statistical analysis, gaining first-hand experience of how scientific questions are formulated, investigated and communicated. At the Astronomical Observatory of Trieste, students used programming and data analysis to develop software capable of identifying and categorising stars and galaxies in astronomical images, while learning how computational tools are transforming modern astronomy.
Field-based research opportunities were equally significant. At the University of Trieste’s Department of Earth Sciences, two students participated in geological investigations that took them from sample preparation to advanced laboratory analysis, working with research instruments and methodologies normally encountered only at university level.
Other participants explored biotechnology, forensic science, marine biodiversity and environmental education through programmes hosted by organisations including BioMa – the Marine Biodiversity Museum of the Miramare Marine Protected Area in Trieste – and Fondazione Golinelli in Bologna. At Fondazione Golinelli, 15 students from Belorus, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Iraq, Italy, Montenegro, Niger, Palestine, Slovenia and Turkey, took part in a two-week programme combining laboratory-based activities in forensic genetics, biochemistry and cell cultures with activities focused on the use of artificial intelligence for science communication.
Across all placements, students were encouraged to engage actively with scientific questions, laboratory techniques, research methods and professional environments. For many participants, the internships provided valuable insights into future academic and career pathways. Several spoke of discovering new interests, strengthening existing passions and gaining a clearer understanding of what life as a researcher or scientist might involve. Equally important were the transferable skills developed throughout the experience, including teamwork, problem-solving, communication and the ability to approach complex challenges with curiosity and resilience.
What united these diverse experiences was the opportunity to move beyond theory and encounter science as a dynamic, collaborative and deeply human endeavour. Whether analysing geological samples, training machine-learning models, studying astronomical data or learning advanced laboratory techniques, students experienced first-hand how knowledge is created and how research can contribute to addressing real-world challenges. UWC Adriatic is deeply grateful to all the institutions, researchers and professionals who welcomed our students and generously shared their expertise, time and enthusiasm.
