I am Vinaya, a PhD student in the Department of Virology at the University of Helsinki, diving into the world of respiratory viruses and how our immune system responds to it. I’ve got a soft spot for I’ve got a soft spot for rhinoviruses (check out my SciCrisp from 2022 if you’re curious!), and love to make science more fun and engaging for everyone. At TSB, I contribute an an author and editor at the blogging team, give workshops on creative writing in science and engage with the local youth through the Youth Science Club, making science more fun for them. I love connecting with people and have a wide range of hobbies. I’m really interested in pursuing a career in science communication, so if you know of any cool opportunities or projects—or just want to chat —let’s connect!
At our Youth Science Club (TSB-YEPP collaboration), we hosted a Floating Balloon Competition, a challenge where physics meets teamwork and creativity! A session exploring concepts like gravity, buoyancy, and even… Read More »Buoyancy and electromagnetism with Balloons!
Most of us entered our PhDs full of aspirations and an academic career in mind. But along the way, our plans seem to have changed.
The best beginnings don’t lecture; they captivate. If you’re unsure how to do that, you’re not alone. Here, we adapt creative writing tools to science communication, showing you how to mix clarity with intrigue and build openings that make readers want to follow you anywhere.
Our last Youth Science club session was a blast, literally! 💥 The workshop was a fantastic hands-on adventure! Our youth participants dove into the world of chemistry. We made volcanoes erupt with… Read More »Science Club back in action ⚡
In May, the Youth Science Club wrapped up the season with a fun but also educational home-made card game: Microbes vs. Immunity Inspired by the American Society for Microbiology’s Pathogens and… Read More »Last session before summer break = game time!
In April, the Youth Science Club got an exclusive guided tour of the Viral Zoonosis Research Unit at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki. Researchers opened their doors and… Read More »Ever wondered what happens inside a real lab?
Thinking of pursuing a PhD? Want to know what it’s really like? In this piece, Vinaya busts the obvious myths about a PhD and summarises the experiences of PhD students.
This spring, we dove into how genetics shapes our perception of the world through fun activities! Taste Perception: Did you know taste is influenced by genetics? We used PTC strips to see… Read More »Youth Science Club Explores Genetics, Heredity, and Senses!
We dived into the new year with science, curiosity, and hands-on experiments! This time, our young explorers ventured into the fascinating world of geography, learning about mapping, topography, and mountains. Through interactive activities, the children: Learned… Read More »The Youth Science Club kicks off 2025 with Geography!
The Questions will be answered:
What is a rhinovirus?
Why is it important?
Can it affect adults? If yes, how? Rhinoviruses are the leading cause of common colds – especially in children. Hence, not much is known about common colds in adults.