FUN2NIGHT · Materials for People

The main objectives of the Project are to familiarize larger public, especially young people, with the scientist’s profession; to show the impact of sciences such as chemistry, medical science, biochemistry and physics on everyday human life; to show researchers as ordinary people; to bring researchers closer to the Latvian society and to attract young people to research careers. Aim of the activities is to enhance public recognition of researchers and their role in Latvian society. The theme of the Researchers’ Night in Latvia is “materials for people” – smart, new, or in everyday used common materials. The theme will not be strictly followed. A number of relaxing, attractive, amazing and interactive events will be organised in four towns - Riga, Daugavpils, Rezekne and Jelgava. The project will be realised by joint efforts of Latvian Academy of Sciences, 5 Universities, and 2 research institutes (including 1 researcher’s support organisation) with participation of knowledge-based SMEs and spin-offs. The Researchers’ Night will be preceded by a promotion campaign in mass media. The scope of activities will include a photo competition among children and adults, establishing a European stand, organising a Café Scientifique; a concert and a rock concert with participation of musicians – researchers; scenic play performed by researchers; public meeting with Marie Curie scholarship holders; arranging a series of events with scientific interactive experiments and quizzes in research institutes and universities. An opinion survey will be performed to size up the viewpoints of public on the event and researchers’ profession. The opinion poll results and analysis of Internet comments on the event will allow to evaluate the impact Researchers’ Night and collect ideas for future activities. The event will be documented in video-film for demonstration on TV and recording in DVD for wide distribution.