A Mystery Fuels Curiosity for Science
Forensic Science Workshop Held in the UK
“Science became more fun and practical—they helped me understand it that way.” This feedback came from a student who participated in the unique “Forensic Science Workshop” program organized by volunteer members of our UK group company, Shimadzu UK Limited (SUK).
This outreach program, designed in the UK—the home of Sherlock Holmes mysteries—combines a workshop where participants use science to solve a crime mystery story with career education.
Lured by a Mystery into the World of Practical Science
Fictional Case: 3 Pieces of Evidence and 6 Suspects
Suspect Data
In this program, students formed teams to solve a fictional crime. Participants use three pieces of evidence—“oil,” “handwriting and pen ink,” and “sweets”—to narrow down suspects through three scientific experiments.
They used Shimadzu analytical instruments: the Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), paper chromatography as the foundation of separation analysis, and density experiments as a physical measurement method to identify differences in substances. Using these techniques, they analyzed the evidence and used a scientific approach to uncover the truth.
Traces of oil were found on the suspect’s clothing
Oil analyzed using the FTIR
Paper fragment with illegible writing
Pen ink analyzed via paper chromatography
Small pieces of sweets were found on the floor nearby
Experiment on salt concentration and buoyancy of sweet confectionery
Inspiring STEM Careers
Concurrently with the workshop, SUK staff engaged students in discussions about career paths in STEM subjects. These conversations aimed to broaden students’ horizons by demonstrating how scientific skills can be applied across a wide range of professions such as forensic science, pharmaceuticals, clinical diagnostics, cosmetics development, and food inspection.
Reaching Children who Have not Had the Opportunity
SUK was established in 2005 as a subsidiary of SHIMADZU EUROPA GmbH and is responsible for the sales of analytical and measuring instruments in the UK. SUK currently employs approximately 80 people and is located in Milton Keynes, a city about 80 kilometers northwest of London, between Oxford and Cambridge.
The school outreach activities were planned by SUK’s Shimadzu 150th Anniversary Event Planning Committee based on suggestions from employees. All activities were run by employee volunteers.
Comment from the Person in Charge
Since Shimadzu Corporation began its business manufacturing educational physics and chemistry instruments, this program aimed to return to those roots, fostering children’s scientific curiosity through hands-on learning. The activity is not merely a social contribution; it embodies the philosophy passed down since the company’s founding: “Contributing to Society through Science and Technology.”
Through interactive storytelling, hands-on experiments, and meaningful discussions about career paths, SUK hopes to nurture students’ lifelong interest in science. We place particular emphasis on communicating the appeal of science to children who have not had such opportunities before.
Lastly, this program is intended to be not only educational but also an initiative to empower the children who will shape the future, enabling them to appreciate that science is accessible and exciting. By sharing the enjoyment and usefulness of science, we hope to help broaden the scientific horizons of the next generation.
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