Nacht der Wissenschaft in der Kiel Region 2018/2019

Objective

Following the resounding success of the first NIGHTs in 2016/17, SCIENCE4FUTURE will once again in 2018 and 2019 bring together all of Kiel Region’s 14 research organisations comprising all academic disciplines to showcase their scientists and work to the public. With 5 participating cities (Kiel, Rendsburg, Eckernförde, Plön and Preetz) and over 30 supporting institutions from the public, private and non-governmental sector, it will be the largest public event dedicated to science in Northern Germany. A multifaceted awareness campaign with live broadcasts during the NIGHTs will reach 80% of the households. More than 100 activities per NIGHT will give the public a chance to personally talk, work and play with scientists thus breaking down stereotypes. SCIENCE4FUTURE will focus on the general themes of identity (to celebrate Europe’s Cultural Heritage), mobility, diversity and Europe, which are ideally suited to showcase the whole spectrum of social, environmental and economic benefits that our researchers achieve every day. Free shuttles will allow visitors (minimum 12,000 expected visitors per NIGHT) to see the broad range of local, national and European research projects in our region. With a careful choice of venues (eg malls, cinemas, night clubs), the involvement of schools, a targeted publicity campaign and a fun-filled programme, the two NIGHTs will attract particularly children and young People, including those usually less interested in academia. Researchers will demonstrate simple “take-home” experiments to teachers, nursery staff and parents to ensure that the interest for research sparked during the event is kept alive beyond the NIGHT. Moreover academic support services (international, student admissions and diversity offices) will offer advice on career options. With the strong support of all stakeholders and the active involvement of over 200 researchers in the design and delivery of the programme SCIENCE4FUTURE will become a regional flagship event.