The Microbe Institute Founder, Anne A. Madden, Ph.D. teamed up with a group of other National Geographic funded explorers and educators to lead an interdisciplinary STEM field class for 5th and 6th graders from Rexberg, ID middle school. The students participated in the Purple Microbe Project, the Lichen Adventure, and explored the science of local habitats while visiting Yellowstone National Park. This project and associated sample collection trip were made possible by funding support from the National Geographic Society and The Explorers Club. Youtube link to see a summary of the project and make sure to check out this student group’s final musical project on lichens and symbiosis after taking part in the Lichen Adventure!