European Researchers' Night

Topic Description

The European Researchers' Night aims 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.

The European Researchers' Night takes place yearly, typically on the last Friday of the month of September, and is the occasion for a Europe-wide public and media event for the promotion of research careers, in particular towards young people and their families. Supported events can start early Friday afternoon and last until early morning the following day.

Activities focus on the general public, addressing and attracting people regardless of the level their scientific background, with a special focus on pupils and students. Activities can combine education aspects with entertainment, especially when addressing young audience. They can take various forms, e.g. hands-on experiments, science shows, simulations, debates, games, competitions, quizzes, etc.

Where appropriate, engagement with educational institutions should be sought in order to encourage formal and informal science education with the aim to improve the scientific knowledge base.

Each proposal should set up at least one European corner. Activities should be organised with researchers actively involved and directly in contact with the public. They should promote the European dimension and gender balance in research and innovation. Involvement of researchers funded by Horizon 2020, including the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions, is encouraged.

Participants can be any legal entity in the EU Member States and Associated Countries, and/or if relevant, constitute a partnership at regional, national or international level. The maximum duration of support will be two years from the starting date specified in the grant agreement. Proposal should cover two editions of the Night, in successive years. One single edition of the Night may also be considered.

Applicants not retained due to lack of funding may be granted the status of associated events.

• Increased awareness among the general public of the importance of research and innovation and more favourable general attitude towards its funding
• Better understanding of the key benefits that research brings to society
• Reduction in the stereotypes about researchers and their profession
• Increase, in the long term, of people taking up research careers