The 2019 Beckman Institute Open House will take place March 8-9 with more than 40 exhibits—many of them interactive—to showcase the work taking place at one of the nation’s leading centers for interdisciplinary research.

The biennial event, held in conjunction with Engineering Open House at the University of Illinois, boasts fun and educational activities for all ages and welcomes groups of any size, with no prior registration required.

The exhibits include a virtual reality experience exploring the molecules of life, 3D printing, an explanation of how to build a better battery, and robots demonstrating an engineered “biobot.” Visitors also will learn about bone structure, liver function, and the inside of the human eye and ear. Several exhibits explore different aspects of the brain. Others will analyze the flow of information on social media, how to improve self-care and health for older adults, and explain studies on infant development.

High-resolution microscopes from Beckman’s Microscopy Suite will showcase intricate and stunning images of small-scale matter. A super-high-magnetic-field magnetic resonance imaging scanner, one of only seven in operation in the world, is on display. Technicians will demonstrate Beckman’s mock MRI machines.

In addition, the documentary, “The Instrumental Chemist,” will explore the legacy of Arnold O. Beckman, a successful inventor and entrepreneur whose generosity and vision helped shape the institute. The film will be shown in the auditorium and restart at the top of the hour throughout the event.

Students from Stratton Academy of the Arts in Champaign return this year, showcasing the school’s partnership with Beckman Institute and other U of I researchers. Their exhibit will highlight not only the students’ coral reef project with a return of the touch tanks, but also showcase their work on clownfish neurology, octopus behavior, and 3D printing coral propagation materials.

The Beckman Café will serve breakfast and lunch both days. Open House hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 8, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 9.

The Beckman Institute is located at 405 N. Mathews Ave., Urbana, at the intersection of Mathews and University avenues. Parking will be available in the parking deck to the east of the institute, as well as on nearby streets.