Discover the Microworld and the Importance of Research!
TMA invites high school students in Grades IX–XI from public and private schools across Georgia to participate in its new project, “Microworld.”
The project is funded by the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia under its Science Popularization Grant Competition.
What is the aim of the project?
The project aims to raise public awareness of antibiotic resistance and promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). To achieve this, participants will conduct their own research-based experiments on a selected topic and gain first-hand experience in scientific research.
Why is this project important?
Antibiotic resistance is one of the most significant contemporary challenges to public health. It makes infectious diseases more difficult to treat and increases the risk of their spread. Addressing this challenge requires both raising public awareness and supporting the discovery of new antibacterial agents.
In this regard, the study of natural ecosystems, particularly soil, is of special importance, as soil represents a significant reservoir of microorganisms capable of producing antibacterial substances.
The project is based on the international educational and research initiative Tiny Earth (University of Wisconsin–Madison, USA), which is implemented in more than 30 countries. The initiative aims to combat antibiotic resistance and encourage young people to engage in research activities in STEM fields.
“Microworld” is implemented by the Tbilisi Medical Academy team and involves an international expert who is a participant in the Tiny Earth initiative and represents the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
What activities will I be able to participate in?
- Attend science outreach lectures on antibiotic resistance as a global challenge;
- Learn the principles of safe laboratory practices in a microbiology laboratory;
- Conduct an independent research experiment at the teaching and research laboratory of Tbilisi Medical Academy: collect soil samples, investigate the microorganisms present in them, and assess their potential antibacterial activity;
- Present your research findings at the project's final scientific conference.
Important Dates
- Registration deadline: December 15, 2026
- Project implementation period: February 1 – September 30, 2027
At Tbilisi Medical Academy, we believe that our commitment extends beyond providing high-quality medical education. It also encompasses promoting science, fostering a research culture, and encouraging critical thinking among young people. We believe that supporting the next generation of researchers begins at an early age. Through the “Microworld” project, we aim to provide school students with the opportunity to explore science through hands-on experience, discover their own interests, and become active participants in the research process.