For the fourth consecutive year, the Curiosity Cube — a mobile science lab designed to make STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning accessible and engaging — has been travelling across Europe, sparking curiosity in students and showcasing the power of hands-on science.
The initiative, powered by science and technology company Merck, aims to ignite interest in STEM careers and break down barriers to science education. Most recently, students at Greyfriars Oxford Catholic School had the chance to become scientists for the day, working alongside Merck employees and partner volunteers from the University of Oxford.
Students visiting the cube explored real-world science through three interactive experiments focused on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI): image authenticity, pattern recognition, and self-driving cars.
These activities were designed to show how STEM shapes everyday life while equipping students with essential problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Stefanie Rammer, Merck’s Curiosity Cube Programme Lead for Europe, said:
“With Merck’s Curiosity Cube program, our mission is to spark curiosity for the next generation of scientists around the world. Through hands-on learning, students can engage in real-world science experiments with real-life scientists, learning first-hand about STEM careers right in their own communities.”
She added:
“Watching students have their ‘aha!’ moment is the most rewarding part of the day in the Curiosity Cube, and we’re thrilled to have partnered with Greyfriars Oxford Catholic School to help make this possible.”
Despite the growing demand for STEM professionals, many students struggle to see themselves in scientific careers.
A recent Merck-funded survey found that nearly half (48 per cent) of middle school students find it difficult to envision themselves as scientists — despite engaging in STEM-related activities every day. The Curiosity Cube helps bridge that gap by offering access to interactive, memorable science experiences.
In 2024, the Curiosity Cube engaged more than 43,000 students across Europe and North America, visiting 14 countries and hosting 282 events. This year, on its fourth European tour, the initiative aims to connect with 20,000 students through more than 130 events.
Since launching in 2017, the Curiosity Cube has visited hundreds of communities across 12 European countries, with a focus on reaching underrepresented and underserved students. To learn more about upcoming tour stops, visit The Curiosity Cube’s website or follow them on Instagram.
