QriUS · Come and Play Science at European Researchers` Night

Come and Play Science at European Researchers` Night

Science has undergone an unforeseen rapid development over the past decade. The new innovations have significantly influenced many details of our everyday lives. Europeans are interested in science and technology; however, they perceive the information they receive as insufficient and their opinion towards public engagement in science and technology is fragmented. Public engagement has become the major approach to bridge science and society. Arts, as a form of expression and a source of genuine creativity has also started to play an important role in supporting the link between science and the public. By nurturing the exchange between science and arts, we arrive at new forms of expression, unlock the potential of creative arts and enrich scientific thinking. European Researchers` Night (NIGHT) is the flagship initiative of the European Commission to bridge science and society and to encourage young people to pursue research careers. QriUS, under coordination of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory and together with partners from cutting-edge research, science education, science communication and the arts, organised the NIGHT for the first time in Heidelberg and Mannheim, in Germany in 2018. The overall objective of QriUS was to bring researchers closer to the general public and to increase awareness of research and innovation activities, with a view to supporting the public recognition of researchers, creating an understanding of the impact of researchers' work on citizen’s daily life, and encouraging young people to embark on research careers. By showcasing twelve different science disciplines and 149 different activities, the project offered a unique opportunity for all age groups to engage with researchers from different areas, and experience and understand the impact of research on our daily lives and future.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union