Unconventional Science Careers Event Opens Doors to Students Across Malta

The fourth edition of Unconventional Science Careers, a two-day national event offering students from Malta’s schools an exceptional opportunity to step inside the diverse world of science unfolding at the University of Malta while exploring a wide range of career paths, was a success.

Held on 27 and 28 November 2025 across various faculties, institutes, centres, and laboratories at the University of Malta’s Msida Campus, the event welcomed students into active research environments, where they met scientists, academics, and industry professionals while learning first-hand about opportunities within numerous scientific fields.

Although many traditionally associate sciences with laboratory work, Unconventional Science Careers showcased its broader and often unexpected dimensions, including earth systems and environmental monitoring, engineering design, digital fabrication, medical imaging, science communication, conservation, and more.

Throughout the two days, the initiative aimed to inspire curiosity, challenge stereotypes, and encourage more young people to consider futures in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

The event featured contributions from the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Media & Knowledge Sciences, Faculty of ICT, Faculty for the Built Environment, the Institute of Earth Systems and the Equity Office, among other participating entities such as the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) and the EU Parliament Liaison Office in Malta.

Activities for the children included interactive showcases of unconventional technologies that enable new ways of communicating with computers, as well as a demonstration of how artificial intelligence is used to support media literacy. Students participated in a hands-on drawing workshop exploring inclusivity in science, immersed themselves in virtual reality sessions, and enjoyed an engaging introduction to where electricity comes from. They also explored a variety of anatomy demonstrations, conducted simple yet captivating experiments, and examined microscopic organisms, bringing scientific concepts to life in an accessible and memorable way.

Staff members from the participating faculties, together with students from a range of university organisations, played an integral role in bringing the event to life. Their dedication was evident not only in the preparation and delivery of the activities but also in the guidance, enthusiasm, and expertise they offered throughout the two days. Beyond facilitating hands-on demonstrations and educational experiences, these teams worked diligently to ensure a welcoming environment and to maintain the highest standards of safety for all young visitors. Their collective effort was essential in creating an engaging, smooth-running, and enriching experience for every student who attended.

Dr Danielle Martine Farrugia, Senior Executive in Science Engagement at UM said, “The earlier children are given the chance to engage with science, the more naturally they begin to see it as part of their everyday world,” said the event organiser. “Getting in touch with science from a young age nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and helps students understand that scientific thinking isn’t limited to textbooks or laboratories; it’s a way of exploring and making sense of the world around them. Events like this allow young people to experience science as exciting, creative, and accessible, while also fostering critical thinking skills that empower them as active citizens. We hope it sparks interests that will continue to grow throughout their education and beyond.”

More information about USC is available online.