Explore Research from East to West in Austria

The main aim of the “Explore Research from East to West in Austria” (exploREsearch) project is to increase the understanding of the key benefits that research brings to society in general, but also to promote and facilitate greater public participation in the entire scientific processes. Our further aim is to enhance youth’s engagement with science and research and in this way encourage them to become future researchers. For the first time in Austria, the ERN will be organised in several major cities (Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck) at the same time covering Austria from East to West and enabling about a third of the Austrian population to directly participate at the event. We created a program that integrates researchers from almost all significant research institutions in these cities, which aim to use the ERN framework to share their knowledge and present their activities and projects. Moreover, support for the event and its promotion was stated by Austrian ministries (including also financial support), other public stakeholders, funding agencies and further initiatives. The event will, on the one hand incorporate on-site formats such as Scientific Booths and Workshops, Science Talks, Science Cafes, Science Slams, the EU-Corner as well as several Social Activities to bring public and science closer together. On the other hand, virtual formats will integrate lectures and workshops as well as a live stream from the on-site stage program for online visitors. Interdisciplinarity plays a significant role in this project and its activities integrate more than 25 domains covering fundamental to applied science as well as physics to arts aiming to provide something for everyone.