Curiosity Cube brings hands-on science to Birmingham, inspiring the next generation of scientists

The initiative, powered by science and technology company Merck, aims to ignite interest in STEM careers and break down barriers to science education for students.

Most recently, students from Devonshire Junior Academy, Ark Victoria Academy, Blackheath Primary School and the University of Birmingham had the chance to become scientists for the day as part of the Cube‘s four-day stop in the Oxford, in partnership with the University of Birmingham who had volunteers as part of its fourth annual tour.

A hands-on approach to learning

During their visit, Birmingham students and communities explored real-world science through three interactive experiments focused on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI): image authenticity, pattern recognition and self-driving cars. These hands-on activities were designed to show young people how STEM is all around them and to equip them with critical thinking skills needed for future careers.

"We had some amazing volunteers from the outreach team at the University of Birmingham, who supported our four days at local schools and ignited the SPARK for curiosity in the next generation of scientists during the festivities of the 125th anniversary of the University. We managed to reach an incredible 905 students with 37 volunteers across the four days which we are very proud of” said Stefanie Rammer, who lead the activities and volunteered at the Curiosity Cube.

Breaking down barriers to STEM careers

Despite the growing demand for STEM professionals, many students struggle to see themselves in these careers. A recent survey funded by Merck found that nearly half (48%) of middle school students find it difficult to envision themselves as scientists — despite engaging in STEM-related activities every day. The Curiosity Cube helps students make this valuable connection by providing access to STEM education in a fun and memorable way.

In 2024, the Curiosity Cube engaged more than 43,000 students across Europe and North America, visiting 14 countries and hosting 282 events. This year, the Curiosity Cube embarked on its fourth European tour, aiming to connect with 20,000 students via more than 130 events. Each stop on its tour is supported by employee volunteers who share their passion for science, providing students with real-world insights into STEM careers.

A growing impact across Europe

Since launching in 2017, the Curiosity Cube has visited hundreds of communities, with a special focus on reaching underrepresented and underserved students. This year, the European tour is making stops in Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, and the U.K. building on its success of recent years to continue inspiring future scientists.

"Every student who walks into the Curiosity Cube walks away with a new way of looking at science," said Stefanie Rammer, Curiosity Cube Coordinator, Merck. "And that spark of curiosity can make all the difference in shaping the scientists of tomorrow."

Join the journey

The 2025 Curiosity Cube tour continues to bring science to life for students across Europe. To learn more about upcoming tour stops, visit TheCuriosityCube.com or follow the journey on Instagram at @curiositycube_merck.