European Researchers’ Night 2024: a celebration of science for global challenges this Friday

The European Researchers’ Night (ERN) returns this year on September 27, 2024, uniting science enthusiasts across Europe for an unforgettable evening of discovery, innovation, and community engagement. Promoted by the European Commission since 2005, this annual event aims to bring science closer to citizens and highlight its role in addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges.

As part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, ERN 2024 will take place in over 30 countries and 300 cities, including key locations in Portugal: Braga, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Évora. The event, themed “Science for Global Challenges”, will focus on connecting the general public, particularly students, with important scientific research and knowledge aimed at tackling global issues like environmental protection, economic growth, and social fairness.

Connecting Society with Science

The European Researchers’ Night is more than just a celebration; it serves as a bridge between society and the scientific community. By reaching out to students and the public, ERN2024 aims to increase awareness of the vital role science plays in everyday life and inspire the next generation of scientists. This year’s theme emphasises how scientific research can be a powerful tool for addressing global challenges—from climate change to social inequality.

ERN2024 aims to show why by helping students, educators, and communities understand the relevance of scientific research in tackling real-world problems. At the same time, the event encourages scientists to better understand public concerns and how these shape science policy. This mutual exchange of ideas will help shape future innovations that are aligned with society’s needs.

An Interactive Scientific Experience

The European Researchers’ Night 2024 promises a hands-on, immersive experience for all ages. The event will run from 17h00 to 00h00, transforming city streets into open-air laboratories where participants can engage with live scientific experiments, interactive demonstrations, and hot-topic discussions.

In Braga, Coimbra, Lisbon and Évora, visitors will have the opportunity to interact with researchers, and learn about cutting-edge scientific advancements in fields like nanotechnology, environmental science, and social research. With over 400 experiences scheduled across Portugal, the event offers something for everyone, from children to adults and seniors, creating a platform for lifelong learning and curiosity.

The Consortium: a National Collaboration

The event in Portugal is powered by a nationwide consortium, ensuring that the European Researchers’ Night reaches communities across the country. Together, INL – Iberian International Nanotechnology Laboratory, the University of Minho’s School of Sciences from Braga, in Coimbra, the University of Coimbra, through its Institute for Interdisciplinary Research and associated research centres, leads the way. In Greater Lisbon, the University of Lisbon, through its National Museum of Natural History and Science, coordinates the Lisbon-based activities, in collaboration with the Universidade Nova de Lisboa, ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, the School of Estoril Hotel and Tourism, and the Lisbon City Council. And from Alentejo, the University of Évora and its various schools.

A Night to Celebrate Science

European Researchers’ Night 2024 is a chance to celebrate the power of science and its impact on our world. It’s an evening where researchers step out of their labs and onto the streets to share their passion and discoveries with the public. For one night, science becomes accessible to everyone—students, families, professionals, and senior citizens alike.

Through engaging, real-life experiments and interactive experiences, the public can see how science is not just a subject in school, but a vital part of everyday life that contributes to solutions for global challenges.

Join us on September 27, 2024, to meet researchers, explore new ideas, and discover how science shapes the world around us. Because science isn’t just something we learn—it’s something we live!