European Researchers' Night

The European Researchers' Night takes place yearly, typically starting on the last Friday of the month of September. Supported main events can last up to two full days: they can start on Friday and continue the following day. Pre-events can also be organised prior to the main event in September. It 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.

The European Researchers’ Night targets the general public, addressing and attracting people regardless of the level of their scientific background, with a special focus on families, pupils and students, and notably those who do not have easy access to, and thus are less inclined to engage in, STEAM or research activities.

Activities can combine education aspects with entertainment, especially when addressing young audiences. They can take various forms, e.g. hands-on experiments, science shows, simulations, debates,

Increased awareness among the general public of the importance of research and innovation and more favourable general attitude towards its public 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

Better understanding of the impact of the European Union’s programmes among the general public