On 19 February, the Instituto de Ciencia Molecular (ICMol), a research institute of the Universitat de València, held a new edition of ICMol Match, a science outreach and talent attraction activity designed to bring molecular research closer to university students through a participatory and immersive experience. The event brought together more than 30 students across two sessions, held in the morning and afternoon, filling all available places.

Organised in the context of Valentine’s Day, the initiative is inspired by the concept of a “match”, aiming to help participants discover which scientific areas best align with their academic and professional interests, while offering a first direct contact with research from inside the institute.

The activity began with an introductory talk delivered by Eugenio Coronado, Director of ICMol, who presented the institute’s structure, its main research lines, and the role of molecular science in addressing current scientific and technological challenges.

Students then took part in a scientific “speed-match”, a series of short meetings organised around five major thematic areas: MOFs and coordination chemistry, two-dimensional materials, energy and sustainability, electronics and spintronics, and biomaterials. Each table was hosted by ICMol PhD students, master’s students and postdoctoral researchers, who explained in an accessible way the scientific questions guiding their work, the potential applications of their research, and what everyday life in a laboratory is like.

As the final stage of the experience, participants selected the two areas with which they had made their best “match” and joined guided visits to the corresponding laboratories and research facilities. This format enabled a more personalised approach to research, encouraging direct dialogue with researchers and providing first-hand insight into advanced scientific techniques.

The strong participation and the high level of interest shown by the students consolidate ICMol Match as a strategic initiative of the institute to foster scientific vocations, highlight opportunities for advanced training, and bring molecular research closer to new generations of talent.