To celebrate National Scientists' Day (16 May), we asked students from Externato Menino Jesus, in Faro, what image they have of a scientist, their work and if they thought about following a profession in research when they grow up.

Do they think scientists all wear lab coats, work in a laboratory and have their hair stand on end?

To give them a sense of reality, the activity included an awareness raising/information session with marine biologists Karina Orsolini - about how marine researchers are and what work they do - and Jorge Palma - about his work on the recovery of the seahorse population in Ria Formosa. 

In the end, not all of the students show their intention to pursue a career in research, but they showed a broader notion of what the role of a scientist is.

Here are the videos made with the students:

What image do they have of a scientist?

After talking to Jorge and Karina, did they keep the same idea?

As for a future profession, is being a researcher in their plans?