The Researchers' Night offers the opportunity to discover research facilities that are usually not open to public (laboratories, research centres, museum collections, ...), use the most recent technologies and instruments with the guidance of scientists, participate in experiments, competitions and quizzes, watch demonstrations and simulations, exchange ideas and party with the researchers. This year, 13 different events are organised in WB countries: Croatia, FYR of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia.

One of the main messages of Researchers' Night is that researchers are "ordinary people with an extraordinary job". Beyond their fascinating profession they are sportsmen, musicians, painters, singers, comedians, and they are ready to share their talent with the public.

Background

 The Researchers' Night was born in 2005 as part of "Researchers in Europe" initiative, resulting form the Communication of the European Commission to the Council and European Parliament "Researchers in the European Research Area: one profession, multiple careers" (COM(2003)436). 

The initiative implemented the Commission's recommendation to "launch a European Year of researchers to strengthen the public recognition of careers in research & development". It aimed at enhancing public recognition of researchers, while stimulating more young people to embark on scientific careers and contributing to the improvement of the researchers' working environment.

Since 2006, Researchers' Night exists as a self standing action under the Marie Curie Actions and has encountered an increasing success. Last year it was celebrated in more than 600 venues in 250 cities of 33 European countries. This year's total indicative budget for organising the night is €4 million.

More information is available at: Researchers' Night

Source: EC, DG for Research and Innovation