BELLEFONTE — A 22-foot traveling science lab rolled into Bellefonte and other areas in Centre County recently — packed with hands-on experiments and real scientists ready to spark curiosity.
The Curiosity Cube is a state-of-the-art mobile science lab that tours the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Southern Africa, bringing hands-on science to young minds. Its goal is to ignite curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists. The Curiosity Cube’s mission is to inspire kids ages 8 to 13 to explore science and dream big about STEM careers.
The Curiosity Cube is the brainchild of MilliporeSigma — the U.S. and Canada Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, with a facility located in Bellefonte. This year marks 10 years of these efforts worldwide, connecting communities with hands-on STEM experiences.
The mobile science lab made several stops in the Bellefonte area as part of its eighth annual tour to bring science education to students. Students explored synthetic biology through three interactive experiments featuring a variety of learning gadgets, such as Cubelets and magnetic puzzles.
The lab visited the following schools:
- Bald Eagle School District – May 13 & May 14
- Bellefonte Elementary – May 15 & May 16
- J.A.M. Fest 2026/State College – May 16
- Mount Nittany Elementary – May 18
- Corl Street Elementary – May 19
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8.1% jump in STEM employment from 2024 to 2034, far outpacing the 2.7% growth expected in non STEM roles. To meet this demand, it is important to start early. Students, especially those between the ages of 8 and 13, need meaningful exposure and relatable role models to envision themselves in these careers.
Inside the Curiosity Cube, MilliporeSigma employees serve as STEM role models, inspiring students in their own community. In 2026, over 2,000 partners and employees will connect with 62,000 students through more than 415 events worldwide.
