We recently spent a morning at Memphis School of Excellence – Winchester with their junior chemistry class, and it was an absolute blast!

While some of our team wowed the students with classic hands-on demos — like the colorful stoplight reaction and the foamy burst of elephant’s toothpaste — I shared a glimpse into the world of computational chemistry. I talked about how we use computer models to study how proteins fold, interact, and function, and how simulations help us “see” chemistry at the molecular level.

To make it tangible, I brought along 3D-printed protein models for the students to hold — little “souvenirs” of science they could take home. It was great seeing how curious they were, asking questions about how computers can predict molecular behavior and how that connects to real-world medicine and research.

Huge thanks to the Memphis School of Excellence teachers and students for their energy and enthusiasm. Nothing beats seeing that spark of curiosity when chemistry comes alive — whether in a test tube or on a computer screen!

Memphis School of Excellence Newsletter Article