Episodes can be used in classrooms, lectures, educational activities and scientific outreach actions
The Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) has made available on YouTube the “Animated Science ” series, a collection of educational videos that explain in a dynamic and accessible way the main concepts, technologies and applications that are part of the day-to-day scientific research at the Center.
With clear language and lively illustrations, the videos cover topics such as electron microscopy, gene editing (CRISPR/Cas9), synchrotron light, sustainable bioproduction, nanotechnology and much more. The goal is to broaden public understanding about science and innovation, offering quality content for teachers, students and the general public.
The videos are available on the official CNPEM YouTube channel and are ideal for use in classrooms, lectures, educational activities and scientific dissemination actions. Access is at the “Ciência Animada ” playlist on YouTube.
Some of the covered topic are:
Microscopy Techniques
How different types of microscopy — such as scanning electron, transmission and cryomicroscopy — reveal structures invisible to the naked eye, from materials to proteins involved in diseases.
Viral Cycle
Shows the six stages of the replication cycle of viruses such as dengue, zika and chikungunya, explaining how infections occur and how this can support the development of vaccines and treatments.
Gene Editing (CRISPR/Cas9)
Explains how this tool allows us to correct genetic mutations and treat diseases, inspired by the natural immune system of bacteria.
Sustainable Processes and Impact Assessment
How engineered microorganisms can turn biomass into biofuels, cosmetics and other green products. Also understand how the life cycle of these products is assessed to ensure their sustainability.
Synchrotron Light
Realistic 3D animation details the functioning of Sirius, one of the most advanced synchrotron light sources in the world, and reveals how electrons are accelerated to produce synchrotron light, radiation used to investigate the structure of matter, in several research areas.
Topics such as nanotoxicology are also covered: safety in the use of nanomaterials; 3D culture: creation of artificial tissues for medical research; Device Factory: manufacturing chips and sensors in clean rooms; and Enzyme Development: biocatalysis and sustainability in industry.
About CNPEM
The Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) is home to a state-of-the-art, multi-user and multidisciplinary scientific environment and works on different fronts within the Brazilian National System for Science, Technology and Innovation. A social organization overseen by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), CNPEM is driven by research that impacts the areas of health, energy, renewable materials, and sustainability. It is responsible for Sirius, the largest assembly of scientific equipment constructed in the country, and is currently constructing Project Orion, a laboratory complex for advanced pathogen research. Highly specialized science and engineering teams, sophisticated infrastructure open to the scientific community, strategic lines of investigation, innovative projects involving the productive sector, and training for researchers and students are the pillars of this institution that is unique in Brazil and able to serve as a bridge between knowledge and innovation. CNPEM’s research and development activities are carried out through its four National Laboratories: Synchrotron Light (LNLS), Biosciences (LNBio), Nanotechnology (LNNano), Biorenewables (LNBR), as well as its Technology Unit (DAT) and the Ilum School of Science — an undergraduate program in Science and Technology supported by the Ministry of Education (MEC).
