MEET THE PROFESSOR 2026: BRINGING SCIENCE INTO THE CLASSROOM
02-04-2026
On Wednesday, 1 April, the annual Meet the Professor initiative once again brought science closer to young minds across Utrecht and surrounding areas. This year, 280 researchers from Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht visited primary schools, cycling in pairs to classrooms in 43 different neighbourhoods.
The day began at the historic Academiegebouw, where all participating duos gathered before heading out, some professors even wearing their academic gowns. Over the course of the day, researchers engaged with nearly 3,400 students, introducing them to the world of science through interactive sessions, small experiments, and open conversations.
Challenging perceptions of science
Before the visits, students were asked what they thought a researcher is. Many discovered that their initial ideas did not quite match reality. Researchers come in many forms, and so do the topics they explore.
Through direct interaction, students experienced that science is not just about knowledge, but also about curiosity, creativity, and asking questions.
Curiosity in action: from knees to bioprinting
One of the visits followed Prof. Jos Malda, together with colleagues Bram Nijhoff and Shanna Mesland, at primary school De Rietakker in De Bilt. Their session introduced students to topics such as worn-out knees, organ printing, and the idea that research is not something confined to universities.
As Prof. Malda shared during the visit, curiosity is at the core of everything: you do not need to be at a university to engage with research, it can start anywhere.
This mindset quickly became visible in the classroom. Students explored cartilage under a microscope and raised unexpected questions, such as why cartilage does not “crack” despite its name. They also had the opportunity to experiment with 3D printing, even creating a model ear using hand cream.
The session naturally evolved into bigger reflections. What would you print if anything were possible? Ideas ranged from ideal pets to improved brains and even entire humans. These discussions opened the door to questions about the possibilities and limits of technology, showing that while printing shapes is achievable, creating fully functional biological structures remains a complex challenge.
Changing how young students see science
The experience left a clear impression on the students. They concluded that being a researcher means being highly curious and constantly asking questions.
At the same time, their perception of researchers themselves shifted. Stereotypes gave way to a more realistic and inclusive image. As shared during the session, even career paths are not always linear, Prof. Malda himself once wanted to become a forest ranger.
The classroom was filled with enthusiasm, questions, and creative ideas, highlighting how early engagement can spark lasting interest in science.
About Meet the Professor
Every spring, researchers from Utrecht University visit primary schools in the region, engaging students from groups 6, 7 and 8 in hands-on scientific activities. Professors, PhD candidates, teachers, and students work together to let children experience research firsthand, from experimenting to critical thinking.
Each year, more than 3,300 children gain a more realistic and inspiring view of science, while researchers themselves gain fresh perspectives through these interactions.
Initiatives like Meet the Professor continue to play an important role in making science accessible, relatable, and inspiring for the next generation.
