Join the Exciting Citizen Science Project 'MinQ' with NEST LAB and Fukuoka University!
In an exciting initiative to engage students and promote scientific inquiry, NEST EdLAB, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has teamed up with the Fukuoka University Citizens' Science Research Center to launch 'Minna de Micro Quest' (MinQ). Set to kick off on August 2, 2025, this ambitious undertaking aims to immerse participants of all ages in genuine scientific research focused on identifying potentially new species of cyanobacteria through hands-on citizen science.
The project invites elementary school students, adults, and everyone in between to collect and culture microorganisms from their surroundings, specifically from the atmosphere and surfaces like walls and trees. Utilizing a hands-on approach, participants will be supported by expert researchers to conduct DNA analysis and identification from the comfort of their homes.
Connecting Science and Society Through Citizen Science
In recent years, the concept of citizen science has gained much attention, particularly in environmental science and biodiversity research. This collaborative effort between experts and ordinary citizens leads to valuable findings often overlooked in traditional research. The 'MinQ' initiative will harness the strengths of both microbiological researchers and enthusiastic participants to uncover hidden microbial life in our environment. This innovative project not only serves as a valuable educational exercise but also contributes to Fukuoka University’s ongoing research in citizen science.
Real Research with the Potential for New Discoveries
Participants will learn how to formulate hypotheses and select suitable environments for microorganism collection during the kickoff event on August 2. Each person will receive a specialized sampling kit, including culture solutions, sedimentation tubes, and pipettes, to aid in their research endeavors. Following the collection and culturing of their samples, they will gather again on August 31 for a 'Cyanobacteria Review Meeting', where they will under microscope observation and evaluation. The findings will culminate in a results presentation scheduled for December 6, where participants will discuss the nature of the microorganisms they discovered and explore whether they might have unearthed new species.
Educational Impact: Blending Inquiry-based Learning with Science Literacy
This project goes beyond the scope of a simple extracurricular activity; it promises a genuine research experience aimed at instilling a love for science and a sense of societal contribution in young participants. From hypothesis formulation to experimental implementation and eventual dissemination of results, participants will engage in what is considered the ideal model of inquiry-based learning. Those involved will formally register as 'researchers', with their contributions acknowledged during the results presentations and potentially included in academic papers.
Event Overview:
Find More Information and Register:
For detailed information and registration, visit the official website: NEST LAB Registration Link.
Who Should Apply?:
Note:
Research outcomes may be utilized in publications and presentation materials, and acknowledgments will be given to collaborators. Personal data, excluding participant information, will be used for research purposes by Fukuoka University. All sampling activities should be conducted safely and under parental supervision.
Contact Us:
For inquiries, contact:
NEST EdLAB - Ijichi at 03-5227-4198 or via email at [email protected].
The project invites elementary school students, adults, and everyone in between to collect and culture microorganisms from their surroundings, specifically from the atmosphere and surfaces like walls and trees. Utilizing a hands-on approach, participants will be supported by expert researchers to conduct DNA analysis and identification from the comfort of their homes.
Connecting Science and Society Through Citizen Science
In recent years, the concept of citizen science has gained much attention, particularly in environmental science and biodiversity research. This collaborative effort between experts and ordinary citizens leads to valuable findings often overlooked in traditional research. The 'MinQ' initiative will harness the strengths of both microbiological researchers and enthusiastic participants to uncover hidden microbial life in our environment. This innovative project not only serves as a valuable educational exercise but also contributes to Fukuoka University’s ongoing research in citizen science.
Real Research with the Potential for New Discoveries
Participants will learn how to formulate hypotheses and select suitable environments for microorganism collection during the kickoff event on August 2. Each person will receive a specialized sampling kit, including culture solutions, sedimentation tubes, and pipettes, to aid in their research endeavors. Following the collection and culturing of their samples, they will gather again on August 31 for a 'Cyanobacteria Review Meeting', where they will under microscope observation and evaluation. The findings will culminate in a results presentation scheduled for December 6, where participants will discuss the nature of the microorganisms they discovered and explore whether they might have unearthed new species.
Educational Impact: Blending Inquiry-based Learning with Science Literacy
This project goes beyond the scope of a simple extracurricular activity; it promises a genuine research experience aimed at instilling a love for science and a sense of societal contribution in young participants. From hypothesis formulation to experimental implementation and eventual dissemination of results, participants will engage in what is considered the ideal model of inquiry-based learning. Those involved will formally register as 'researchers', with their contributions acknowledged during the results presentations and potentially included in academic papers.
Event Overview:
- - Kickoff: August 2, 2025 (Saturday), 10:00 - 11:30 AM
- - Mid-Evaluation (Review Meeting): August 31, 2025 (Sunday), 1:00 - 2:30 PM
- - Results Presentation: December 6, 2025 (Saturday), 10:00 - 11:30 AM
- - Participants: Elementary students to adults (parental supervision recommended for children)
- - Cost: 17,600 JPY (tax included), covering tuition, research kits (cultivation solutions, equipment, containers, etc.), gene analysis fees, informational materials, and shipping
- - Format: Entirely online (utilizing Zoom and Slack)
- - Organizers: NEST LAB (NEST EdLAB, Inc.)
- - Partners: Fukuoka University Faculty of Commerce Citizens' Science Research Center / CoLabField
- - Application Deadline: August 1, 2025 (Friday)
Find More Information and Register:
For detailed information and registration, visit the official website: NEST LAB Registration Link.
Who Should Apply?:
- - Elementary and middle school students interested in real research, along with their parents.
- - Individuals curious about microorganisms, DNA, and environmental science.
- - Educators and local authorities looking to integrate practical science into STEAM curriculums.
Note:
Research outcomes may be utilized in publications and presentation materials, and acknowledgments will be given to collaborators. Personal data, excluding participant information, will be used for research purposes by Fukuoka University. All sampling activities should be conducted safely and under parental supervision.
Contact Us:
For inquiries, contact:
NEST EdLAB - Ijichi at 03-5227-4198 or via email at [email protected].
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