In October, the Institute for Medical Research hosted two hands-on learning events for high-school students, creating a space where evidence-based nutrition and modern biomedical research could move closer to the classroom.
On October 16, Dr. Milica Kojadinović and Dr. Anđelija Petrović Čukić delivered the lecture “Your Plate-Your Health” at the 12th Belgrade Gymnasium. The session unpacked the basics of healthy eating, the role of essential nutrients, and how everyday habits form during adolescence. As Dr. Kojadinović emphasized, “When young people understand how nutrition shapes their energy, focus, and long-term health, they’re more likely to make choices that truly make an impact. Our goal is to give them knowledge they can put to work right away, especially at a stage of life that can feel overwhelming.”
On October 30, a group of students visited our Center of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, where they explored laboratory workflows and spoke with researchers about the clinical-nutrition approaches guiding today’s studies in metabolism and dietary science. During their visit, students also measured their body composition at the Nutrition Counseling Center, gaining first-hand insight into practical tools used to assess nutritional status.
The introductory session on PCR and DNA sequencing was led by Dr. Maja Milošević. During the following workshop, students isolated DNA from their own epithelial cells using simple, safe household reagents like saline, pineapple juice, and chilled ethanol. As the strands slowly appeared, they got a first real feel for molecular biology and what discovery looks like.
Both activities were designed to give young people direct exposure to science and a more grounded sense of what modern nutrition and biomedical research look like in practice. The Institute for Medical Research will continue building programs that connect education, research, and public health through long-term partnerships with schools and local communities.
