REN2008 · 2008 Researchers' Night: The Greek Events

The main objective of the ReN2008 project is the continuation of the efforts carried out in previous years in order to bring closer researchers with the Greek society aiming to attract more young people into research careers and to contribute in creating a more favorite environment for the researchers. Therefore, the aim of the ReN2008 project is to enhance public recognition of researchers and their role in Greek society. On 26.9.2008 three Researchers’ Night Events will be organized in 3 big cities of Greece: Heraklion, Patras and Volos. This year the thematic priority will be “Environment: Mythology, Innovation, Science and Education”. In Volos, the event will be dedicated to a Centaur living in the mountains near by Volos with huge knowledge of the properties of herbs and their influence in the human health. In Heraklion, the visitors will be informed about the innovative environmentally friendly products and the new technologies for environmental protection developed by the researchers. Finally, in Patras the public will have the opportunity to visit 4 thematic corners (photographic, educational, innovation and music corner). All three events will be organized in the central squares of the cities. To achieve these general scopes the project will focus on the following detailed objectives: 1.Promote the 3 events by an awareness campaign. 2.Encourage the local authorities and local industry for more active participation. 3.Organize a photograph competition addressed to adults, over 18 years old with theme “Portrait of a researcher” 4.Evaluate the success and attractiveness of the 2008 Researchers’ Night events and disseminate the project results. 5.Give a European dimension to the hole effort mainly by organizing in all events the “European Corner” The expecting audience in each event is estimated to be over 2.000 people.