Discovery Day Inspires the Next Generation of Researchers

Post Date: October 20, 2026 | Publish Date:

More than 80 local middle and high school students connected with Cincinnati Children’s researchers and health professionals.

Cincinnati Children’s recently hosted its first Fall Discovery Day, bringing together more than 80 middle and high school students to explore healthcare careers and connect with researchers and health professionals. More than 50 research staff and volunteers supported the event, helping make it a success for all who attended.

The event kicked off in Sabin Auditorium with remarks by Tasha Wadley, MD, associate medical director of the Pediatric Primary Care Center, who challenged students to consider how they could help solve the challenges of the future.

New to the program was Patrick Ryan, PhD, MS, who demonstrated how researchers measure air pollution using sensors and how that data can help communities take action to reduce negative environmental factors. Ryan is also director of the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program and spoke about opportunities for students interested in science and research.

Participants once again observed scientists from the labs of Leah Kottyan, PhD, and Ty Troutman, PhD, who introduced students to techniques including gel electrophoresis, micro- and serological pipetting and microscopy. Josh Waxman, PhD, invited students into the zebrafish lab where they learned about studies to improve heart development and regeneration.

“I hope students learn that there are more careers here than being a doctor or nurse,” said Maggie Hanlon, a research assistant in the zebrafish lab and three-year Discovery Day volunteer. “When I was in middle and high school, I didn’t know there were so many options.”

Mental and Behavioral Health Institute staff shared relaxation techniques with students and showed them how to use biofeedback to track their results. Respiratory Therapy staff introduced students to the science behind breathing.

Discovery Day co-sponsors included the Office of Academic Affairs and Career Development, Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation and the Center for Clinical and Translational Science and Training.

View a gallery of photos below.