Traditionally, in the months of July and August, PCB organisations welcome students of different ages and levels of training for internships. They come eager to learn first-hand about the world of research. It’s science that draws them, and they’re happy about the opportunity to spend the summer with us.

Teaching experimental techniques may be the main objective, but it is important to remember that science has a whole series of auxiliary activities, which we must also show them:

• Correct separation of hazardous waste, following the guidelines established in each laboratory.

• Orderly disposal of non-hazardous waste, such as plastic packaging, hard-shell ice packs and expanded polystyrene containers or folded cardboard boxes, in the available eco-points.

• Energy saving measures when using equipment and in lighted spaces.

• Correct management of devices and ultrafreezers.

• Experimental work with a gown, gloves and appropriate personal protective equipment. Protection for legs, feet and arms when going to look for dry ice and nitrogen on shelves in storage rooms.

• Transporting samples through the corridors: well-protected and without laboratory gloves when touching doors or lift buttons.

Actions to disseminate values involving environmental respect and personal protection or to promote knowledge exchange and interaction between young people and established researchers are gestures that promote sustainability and create more inclusive and resilient societies. Let’s be generous by training and transferring our knowledge to the professionals of the future! We can teach biomedical research and values that help us move towards a more just world.