A group of ninth-grade students recently traded their Saturday routines for lab coats and microscopes as they stepped into the fascinating, and sometimes surprising, world of fungi at Iowa State University. Hosted by the Microbiology Outreach Program in Dr. Silvina Arias’ Seed Science Center lab, the hands-on workshop invited 15 students, in partnership with Science Bound, to explore crucial and different roles fungi play in our world, from beneficial organisms that support plant growth or food fermentation to harmful pathogens that threaten seeds and grains. This immersive experience is designed to spark curiosity and expand access to STEM education.
In the workshop titled “Fungi: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly!”, the students gained a deeper understanding of how microbiology connects directly to real-world challenges.
“Fungi are everywhere, but we often only think about them when they cause problems,” said Silvina Arias, adjunct assistant professor and seed pathologist at Iowa State University. “This workshop was an opportunity to show students that fungi can be both helpful and harmful—and that understanding them is essential for agriculture, food security, and sustainability.”
During the workshop, students participated in hands-on laboratory activities focused on identifying fungal pathogens that commonly contaminate corn and soybean seeds, the most important crops cultivated in Iowa. Working with real samples and laboratory tools, participants experienced what it’s like to conduct scientific investigations in a professional research setting.
“For many of these students, this was their first time in a research lab,” Arias said. “Being able to examine real samples on blotter and plate tests, distinguish main fungal morphological characteristics, and ask questions in a lab environment helps them see themselves as scientists. That moment of connection is incredibly powerful.”
The event was supported by Gabriela Morel-Gadea, graduate assistant and research scientist; Natalia Sancho-Quiros, graduate assistant; and Palloma Caproni-Morais, postdoctoral associate, whose assistance with preparation, instruction, and student engagement helped ensure the workshop ran smoothly. Their involvement allowed students to receive individualized guidance while exploring complex scientific concepts in an accessible way. The instructors also received guidance from Dr. Charles Block, Seed Health Testing Coordinator.
“This kind of outreach doesn’t happen without a team,” Arias added. “Their support made it possible to create an experience that was both educational and exciting.”
Why This Matters
Microbiology plays a critical role in nearly every aspect of life—from crop production and food safety to environmental health. Introducing students to topics such as plant pathology, bacteria, and fungi at an early stage helps demystify science and highlight its relevance to everyday life.
Through partnerships with programs like Science Bound, Iowa State University is helping to create pathways for students from low-income and first-generation student backgrounds to explore STEM careers. Science Bound’s mission to support students through academic enrichment and mentorship aligns closely with the goals of the Microbiology Outreach Program.
“Partnerships like this are essential,” Arias said. “They allow us to meet students where they are, provide meaningful learning experiences, and show them that there is a place for them in science.”
By combining hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world applications, the workshop offered more than a single afternoon in the lab—it provided students with a glimpse into future possibilities.
“These experiences plant a seed,” Arias said. “You may not see the impact right away, but for some students, this is the moment they realize science is something they can do.”