The website http://microbemagic.ucc.ie, a new scientific resource for primary school students and their teachers, will be a major information resource on body and health issues.  It will provide access to research undertaken by the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC), the Science Foundation Ireland funded research centre at UCC and Teagasc, Moorepark which conducts cutting-edge research at the interface between food and medicine.  

Led by Mike (who likes microbes!), the site has informative links that explore 'Your microbes' and what goes on 'Inside your gut'.  The website also allows students to 'Explore your body' and provides information on 'Healthy living'.  There are lots of educational games to play online or students can download the computer game Gut Reaction, in which players travel through the intestines and have to harness the energy from probiotic (or good) bacteria in the gut in order to kill the bad bacteria, viruses and cancers before they kill the human host.  

Students and teachers will also find experiments that don't need specialist equipment, just everyday items that can be found at home or at school.  'Ask a Scientist' allows students to interact with scientists.  With regular news and competitions and over 500 pages of scientific information, there is always something to interest students, teachers and everyone else who is curious about what goes on in their bodies!  

Commenting on the new site, Minister Martin, said "As scientific knowledge is cumulative, it is necessary that children start learning early.  Microbe Magic demonstrates the exciting and innovative ways children can learn about science in an interactive and meaningful way and I would urge them to log on and use the site to increase their learning skills."

Professor Fergus Shanahan, Director APC added "Microbe Magic will provide a wonderful learning experience and resource for students and teachers to explore cutting edge research undertaken at the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC) in UCC.   It is a major information resource on biological science and supports the APC mission - to link Irish science with industry and society through excellence in research, education and outreach in gastrointestinal health."

Commenting at the launch of the website, Professor Frank Gannon, Director General, stated, "websites such Microbe Magic are important tools in encourage students to consider careers in science and engineering.  By using resources like this we hope to have a positive impact on the next generation of scientists and engineers."

Find out more about the APC, the scientists who work there and the work they are doing at: http://apc.ucc.ie  

Picture: Saidhehe Ellick and Sarah Malito from Cork School Project, Grattan Street

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