FUTURES · Create. Imagine. Explore.

FUTURES: Create. Imagine. Explore.

FUTURES is a European Researchers Night’ event bringing together learning from the past and visions of the future, celebrating cultural heritage and exploring innovation. It is hosted by the cities of Bristol and Bath, engaging local people in the discovery and celebration of European cutting-edge research and its place in society. The consortium is led by the University of Bristol alongside the University of Bath and Bath Spa University. FUTURES has a distinctive regional flavour, bringing together Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellows from the Universities of Bristol, Bath, Exeter and Cardiff, and utilising the strong research connections between these universities. We work with popular venues such as the science centre ‘We The Curious’ and The Holburne Museum, as well as community partners to ensure a diversity of citizens can participate in inspiring activities. We have a strong emphasis on engaging school children and families, particularly those who may not normally engage with research, to increase awareness of research careers and break stereotypes about researchers. Direct interaction with researchers is key, allowing audiences to meet the people behind the science. The activities build the story of cultural heritage and innovation that have characterised the region’s scientific and socioeconomic development. With Responsible Research and Innovation in mind, we reflect on how current developments have the potential to influence the future of the region and beyond. The objectives of FUTURES are: 1. build on the rich legacy of innovation and cultural heritage in the South West region to showcase current research and the advances brought about by the universities; 2. engage public audiences, both those familiar with the universities and EU research as well as those new to them, with the positive impacts research has on their daily lives; 3. explore the rich cultural diversity of the region's population, inviting diverse communities to participate in the events; 4. inspire and encourage young people in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding areas to raise their aspirations so they may embark on scientific careers in the future, actively working with local schools, including those from disadvantaged communities; 5. showcase Europe’s leading Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellows working in the West of England and South Wales alongside as well as other research also funded by the European Commission; 6. facilitate greater interaction amongst disparate areas of research, breaking down disciplinary barriers; 7. coordinate joint activities with a number of successfully awarded European Researchers’ Nights (ERNs) both in the UK and across Europe, and with other EU funded projects; 8. promote the benefits of European research funding to a wider UK audience.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union