(L-R) Petra Straga and Yigit Günes in Tamaulipas, Mexico;
Credit: FJSL
On Tuesday 9 December 2025, the Fondation Jeunes Scientifiques Luxembourg (FJSL) announced its successful participation in ExpoCiencias Nacional 2025, held last week in Tamaulipas, Mexico.
Two student projects were selected to represent Luxembourg on the international stage, showcasing the creativity and scientific excellence of the country's young researchers.
Among them, the AURA bracelet developed by Shaheen Aljourdi, Rodrigo Von Mayer Goulart and Yigit Günes, was awarded a bronze medal. The project already won a prize at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) held in Latvia in September 2025. Read more information about the AURA project and team in this Chronicle.lu interview: https://chronicle.lu/category/abroad/56780-eucys-2025-luxembourg-students-to-take-pla-production-using-chlorella-vulgaris-project-to-latvia
Reflecting on the experience, Yigit, who represented his team in Mexico, shared:
"Just a year ago I could not even imagine joining the Jonk Fuerscher science competition, now I am here in Mexico winning a medal, and everything feels like such a fever dream. I felt like an absolute superstar being here in Mexico and making bonds that will stick with me forever. Every smile, every compliment, every conversation means so much to me and makes me realise that this is what I love doing."
Petra Straga, who also attended the event and presented her project "IDH1 Wild-type vs IDH1 R314C Enzymatic Activity", said: "ExpoCiencias was a wonderful experience that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I had the opportunity to travel to North America for the first time as one of the two Luxembourgish representatives, which led to so many lovely memories. This competition was a great chance for me to showcase my work, share my passion for molecular biology and experience a scientific fair outside of Europe. Additionally, I was lucky to meet many open, friendly and welcoming Mexicans, try the most delicious food, have a terrific cultural exchange and bring home lots of spicy candy."
According to the FJSL, the delegation embodied the foundation's mission of supporting young scientific talent and promoting international exchange. Throughout the event, both Luxembourgish participants engaged with peers from around the world, building connections that extend beyond the competition.
As part of its ongoing commitment to global scientific collaboration, the FJSL also awarded two international students a special prize, granting them the opportunity to participate in the Luxembourg International Science Expo (LISE) 2026.
Sousana Eang, Director of the Foundation, emphasised the importance of this international engagement: "We are fortunate to support young scientific talents whose work has once again been recognised - this time on the international stage in Mexico. Beyond the competition, the trip offered an invaluable opportunity to broaden horizons, foster new friendships and strengthen the spirit of scientific exchange."
The FJSL congratulated all participants and extended its gratitude to the organisers of ExpoCiencias for their "warm welcome and dedication to youth science".
