The BioQuest: The Lyceum Biology challenge was successfully held on December 14, 2024, at the LOFT, SIX Residences, University of Nicosia. The event was organized by the βιος-Society of Biological Sciences in Cyprus (βιος-SBSCy) with the support of the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of FEBS, and under the auspices of the Directorate of Secondary General Education, of the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Cyprus.  

The event aimed to engage and inspire high school students in the molecular life sciences, fostering scientific curiosity and excellence through a competitive yet educational experience. The competition brought together eleven teams of high school students (aged 15–18) and their educators from across Cyprus to showcase their scientific skills and knowledge in Biology and, above all, to have fun while learning! 

During the event's opening, Professor Niovi Santama from the University of Cyprus and Secretary General of βιος-SBSCy highlighted FEBS's contribution to promoting scientific collaboration and education in the molecular life sciences over the past six decades. She also explained that the Cypriot scientific society βιος-SBSCy, as the FEBS Constituent Society, provides its members with access to all funding opportunities available for scientific and educational activities offered by FEBS. 

Dr. Vicky Nicolaidou, from the University of Nicosia, Chair of βιος-SBSCy and a member of the competition's Organizing Committee, stated: "The BioQuest competition is an outstanding initiative that showcases students' talent and passion for biology. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists and promote education in life sciences. We are extremely honored to have the opportunity to organize this event as part of FEBS 60th Anniversary celebration".  

The participants competed in an interactive quiz, which included a first round of rapid-fire questions and a second round where teams faced a challenge based on a real scientific scenario. 

The winning team, mem-Brains from Kykkos B' Lyceum in Nicosia, consisted of students Alexis Ellinas, Alexandros Samoutis, and Triantafyllos Memtsoudis, under the guidance of their teacher, Elina Agathangelou. Second place was awarded to the team 4Evolution from Kykkos Lyceum in Paphos, while third place went to the team Vergina from Vergina Lyceum in Larnaca. 

The winners received cash prizes and a unique opportunity to participate in a one-week research experience/internship at the laboratories of the School of Life and Health Sciences at the University of Nicosia. Under the supervision of βιος-SBSCy Executive Committee members Drs Myrtani Pieri and Vicky Nicolaidou they will gain hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques. 

The BioQuest: The Lyceum Biology Challenge successfully fulfilled its mission of engaging young students in the life sciences. The event not only showcased their scientific talent but also provided valuable learning experiences that could shape their future academic and professional pursuits. The student's response and performance were truly inspirational! 

Additionally, this event promoted βιος-SBSCy as the leading scientific organization representing biologists in Cyprus while also raising awareness of FEBS contributions and funding opportunities for scientists, especially young ones and educators. The collaboration between βιος-SBSCy, FEBS, and educational institutions demonstrated the power of science-driven initiatives in fostering the next generation of researchers and professionals. Βιος-SBSCy looks forward to continuing this initiative and expanding its reach in the years to come. 

Photos courtesy of  βιος-Society of Biological Sciences in Cyprus. For Data Protection queries, please contact the βιος-Society of Biological Sciences in Cyprus at [email protected]