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Critter Collectors: Fieldwork Exploration Zone

How do researchers collect their study animals? They head into the field and get hands-on! This program introduces kids to different types of organisms and the methods scientists use to gather them. Learn how to spot a squid hidden in the sand and capture it with a net. Try collecting insects from plants using specialized tools. Explore the world of anemones under a microscope. Through these activities, kids will discover how researchers find and study animals in the wild while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Presented by:

  • Lacey Bishop-Schouster, Grad. Researcher, Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Michigan State University
  • Elizabeth Heath-Heckman, Assistant Professor, Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology, Michigan State University
  • Joey Krampen, Grad Researcher, University of Michigan
  • Kyle Davis, Grad Researcher, Integrative Biology, Michigan State University
  • Madison Emery, Post-Doc Researcher, Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology, Michigan State University
  • Grace DeMilio, Undergraduate Researcher, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University
  • Elizabeth Widun, Undergraduate Researcher, Microbiology, Genetics, Immunology, Michigan State University
  • Lauren Bottini, Undergraduate Researcher, Microbiology, Genetics, Immunology, Michigan State University
  • Camille Boucaud, Graduate Researcher, Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology, Michigan State University
  • Alice Walker, Research Technician, Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology, Michigan State University

Suggested for ages: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Elementary school age

Scientific Disciplines:

  • Plant and Animal Sciences
  • STEAM Expo Days 117
  • Early Childhood Zone 13

For more information:

Read more about Critter Collectors: Fieldwork Exploration Zone (external site)

Times and Locations

  • 4/11/2026 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

    Location: STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Room 2130

  • 4/12/2026 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

    Location: STEM Teaching and Learning Facility Room 2130

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