Micropia professor Remco Kort, who teaches at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), and Micropia have worked together for quite some time. By signing this new declaration of intent, the two institutions have committed to intensifying their collaboration. As part of these efforts, Micropia lab technicians will be able to use the VU laboratory in order to conduct research. VU Amsterdam and ARTIS will also set up a joint research programme in which MSc students in Life Sciences can complete a work placement at ARTIS and Micropia for microbiological field research.
This programme is in keeping with the mission shared by VU Amsterdam and Micropia: closing the gap between the scientific community and the general public, as well as introducing microbiology to a wide audience. Remco Kort serves in an advisory capacity at the microbe museum. He was involved in its foundation and gives lectures on microbiology, among other tasks.
Micropia
Micropia is the only museum on earth that reveals the invisible world of micro-organisms. Every human being carries with them some 1.5 kilos of microbes. Micropia aims to create interest among the general public for these smallest and most successful organisms on Earth. In addition to a museum, Micropia is also a platform, a link between the scientific community and the public. It provides information on current issues, the importance of microbes and the possibilities they offer for people and nature. To that end, Micropia uses its museum, activities and website to connect scientists, politicians, businesses, students, pupils, journalists and interested individuals.