On April 23, 2026, the 24th Brandenburg Future Day took place, and the GFZ was once again in attendance. Approximately 46 students in grades 7 through 9 gained insight into the work at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences. On this day, the students had the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes at the GFZ’s administrative and research operations.

Student Lab – Research Up Close 

At the start of the Future Day, 28 participants were welcomed at the GFZ student lab and received a brief introduction to the GFZ’s research departments. In an interactive geoscience quiz, the students tested their geoscience knowledge and got to know each other better in small groups. The students could choose from seven different lab and work areas and spent part of the morning in one of these departments. There, the students interacted with researchers in small groups and learned about various research fields and career paths at the GFZ.

The students gained insight into working with microorganisms by analysing DNA from environmental samples and learning about microbiological methods in the lab. They conducted research in geomorphology on the formation and transformation of landscapes and explored the Telegrafenberg during a short field trip. Seismology provided additional insights into science through the study of earthquakes, as did the SIMS laboratory, which focuses on the chemical and isotopic analysis of rocks and minerals. In the geosciences section, the students explored rock properties and observed an experiment in the high-pressure laboratory. Climate research was also represented. In the dendroclimatic laboratory, they learned how trees function as climate archives. In geodesy, they gained insights into modern environmental surveying methods using GNSS and laser scanning.

After a group lunch, further hands-on experiments followed in the GFZ student laboratory focusing on the topics of climate and volcanism. 

Administration – A Look Behind the Scenes of a Research Center 

A total of 18 students gained exciting insights into the work in the GFZ administration. After a brief welcome, the four administrative department, Human Resources, Finance, Purchasing, and General Technical Services, were introduced, and their important role in day-to-day research was explained.

The students received various information about dual study programs and apprenticeship opportunities at the GFZ. In addition, two GFZ apprentices shared their experiences and answered questions from the students.

Afterwards, the students had the opportunity to learn more about the Finance and Purchasing departments. The departments’ responsibilities were not only presented but also conveyed in a creative way through a crossword puzzle and a simulation game.

The General Technical Services department also provided insights into its work and demonstrated how it supports research at the GFZ behind the scenes. As an example, the event technology in the lecture hall, which seats up to 300 people, was presented and tested.

Overall, the 24th Future Day offered the young people the opportunity to experience geoscientific research up close and learn about various career fields.