World of Plankton, an interactive educational game developed by faculty and students at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), has been permanently installed at the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain as part of the center’s newly renovated Into the Lake exhibit. The official unveiling took place on July 15 during the public reopening of the exhibit in Burlington, Vermont.

Created by RPI professor Kathleen Ruiz and the students of Eco Resilience Global Games Research Group, World of Plankton invites players to explore the unseen world of microscopic freshwater life, helping them understand the complexity of freshwater ecosystems and native wildlife through an engaging and fun interactive experience. The exhibit features a large digital touch table where players can capture and observe phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fish species. Players can also respond to real-time simulations of dynamic environmental events such as harmful algal blooms and the spread of invasive species, highlighting the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems.

“World of Plankton offers an interactive and engaging way to learn about critical environmental issues,” said Kathleen Ruiz, RPI arts and GEM (games & experiential media) professor and founder of the Eco Resilience Global Games Research Group. “Through the game, players experience firsthand how environmental changes impact aquatic worlds, helping them better understand the growing importance of protecting freshwater ecosystems and supporting native wildlife.”  

The game’s content and design are grounded in research conducted through the Jefferson Project — a joint initiative between RPI, IBM, and The Fund for Lake George. The game is also informed by field studies at RPI’s Darrin Fresh Water Institute, adding additional enrichment to the simulations.

Developed over several years, the project brings together dozens of RPI students and alumni from across diverse disciplines — including digital artists, composers, game designers, programmers, engineers, biologists, geologists, and freshwater ecologists. Many of these contributors returned to Burlington for the unveiling to celebrate the accomplishment with the RPI team.  

The installation of World of Plankton not only marks a significant milestone for the project but also exemplifies RPI’s interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex global challenges. By integrating environmental science, technological innovation, and artistic expression, the exhibit embodies the Institute’s dedication to creating hands-on, research-driven learning experiences that actively engage the public and inspire future generations of problem-solvers.

To learn more about World of Plankton, visit: https://homepages.hass.rpi.edu/ruiz/WorldOfPlankton/AboutWoP.htm