UP Researchers’ Night 2026 Connected Research, Creativity and Curiosity
On 24 and 25 September 2026, the UP successfully hosted UP Researchers’ Night, held in parallel with European Researchers’ Night 2026. A diverse programme at various locations brought together researchers, children, young people and the wider public, offering an opportunity to discover the fascinating world of science.
The programme, held at UP faculties and other member institutions in Koper, Izola, Piran, Portorož, Rodik and Slovenj Gradec, offered visitors an insight into a wide range of research fields, as well as the opportunity to experience research activities themselves.The event began on Thursday, 24 September, with the “Health and Science” Open Day at the UP FVZ in Izola. The main programme followed on Friday, 25 September, when numerous research, educational and creative activities took place at various UP locations.
Discovering Science Through Experience
Participants could take part in a variety of interactive workshops, presentations and guided tours, gaining first-hand insight into research work. They had the opportunity to step into the role of researchers, discover the secrets of the animal world, explore language, learn about robotics, and venture into the world of the natural and cultural heritage of our region. The diverse programme allowed visitors to discover science through hands-on experience. Direct contact with research is an important part of efforts to bring science closer to the wider public, particularly younger generations.
Science That Connects Generations
UP Researchers’ Night demonstrated that research can be accessible and engaging for people of all generations. Meetings with researchers gave visitors the opportunity to learn about their work, research challenges and the fields they explore. Particular attention was devoted to young people, as events such as UP Researchers’ Night encourage their curiosity, creativity and interest in research while introducing them to the diverse opportunities offered by science and research careers.
At the UP Faculty of Tourism Studies – Turistica, visitors explored how tourism development is planned. Through an interactive presentation and a hands-on workshop, the activity How Is a Tourism Development Strategy Created? demonstrated how a tourism development strategy is developed, who is involved in the process, and how tourism development can affect the lives of local residents. The activity was primarily aimed at primary and secondary school students, giving them the opportunity to explore the challenges of tourism development through practical work and develop their own solutions.
UP Researchers’ Night thus confirms that direct contact with science can open up new questions, inspire curiosity and bring together people of different generations.
