Over 300 enthusiastic year 9 and 10 female students from across WA recently flocked to Murdoch University for an inspiring three-day outreach program under the banner of 'WISE - Women in STEM'.

This initiative aimed to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among young women.

A highlight of the program was the workshop titled 'How Butterflies Create Colours', conducted by researcher Dr Annie Jessop. In this captivating session, students had the unique opportunity to observe butterflies under a microscope, closely examining the intricate scales on their wings.

Through this hands-on experience, the students learned how structural colours are produced not by pigments but by microscopic structures that interact with light. This fascinating insight into the natural world demonstrated the blend of biology, physics, and chemistry in creating the stunning hues seen in butterfly wings.

The workshop not only enriched the students' understanding of scientific principles but also served as a powerful reminder of the wonders and beauty that science can uncover. By participating in such engaging activities, the WISE program continues to inspire the next generation of women in STEM, fostering curiosity and a love for learning.

The butterfly coloration workshop was the brainchild of Murdoch University researcher Dr Annie Jessop. Dr Jessop, whose interdisciplinary research addresses formation and evolutionary purpose of nanostructures in neotropical butterflies, is passionate about sharing her research with the next generation of students: "The magic of butterflies is a great way to get the students excited and thinking about the interconnectedness of biology, physics, and technology. I loved the enthusiasm of these young women and am delighted to play my part in promoting the opportunities in STEM to young minds."