During the last week of April, the labs at the Catholic University of Valencia (UCV) were buzzing with young talent. Following an initial phase of remote learning, 60 students from nine European universities gathered in the city for the grand finale of AlgaeQuest — a student project backed by the EU-CONEXUS alliance.
The journey brought together the best of both worlds. It all started behind screens, where students dived deep into algae biology and its massive potential for tackling modern environmental crises. But the real reward came later: the top-performing participants travelled to Valencia for a week of total immersion at UCV.
During their time, students swapped textbooks for pipettes. They rolled up their sleeves in the lab, experimenting with advanced techniques like extracting chlorophyll and recovering high-value antioxidants from macroalgae. It was the perfect chance to see firsthand how these organisms can become key allies for a more sustainable future.
Behind all the science and complex logistics were Juan Esteban Caicedo and Daniel López Barrera. Managing multiple international institutions, balancing budgets and coordinating travel for 60 people all at once is no easy feat, but they ran the show seamlessly from day one.
Beyond the data and lab results, AlgaeQuest wrapped up leaving behind something just as valuable: a new network of young European researchers. It is proof that international university cooperation isn’t just a nice idea on paper — it actually works.
