ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a world-leading centre for research in the physical and life sciences at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. A group of Year 10 students were privileged to spend a day at ISIS on 9th November, meeting some of the scientists, learning more about the work at ISIS and taking part in a series of hands-on workshops.

ISIS uses the technique of neutron or muon scattering to study materials. By studying how materials work at the atomic-level, scientists can better understand their every day properties, and so make new materials tailor-made for specific applications. ISIS supports a national and international community of more than 2000 scientists for research ranging from clean energy and the environment, pharmaceuticals and health care, through to nanotechnology and materials engineering, catalysis and polymers, and on to fundamental studies of materials.

During the day, the girls programmed robots, investigated catalysis, synthesised nylon and investigated its properties and used computer simulations to study phase changes. They also enjoyed a chemistry lecture-demonstration as well as sampling ice cream made using liquid nitrogen.

The girls were thoughtful, enthusiastic and interested in all the day had to offer, although some did end up with blue hands due to excessive interaction with their home-made slime!