EUTOPIA_HEALTH Takes Centre Stage at the European Researchers' Night 2025

The EUTOPIA_HEALTH project proudly marks its second consecutive year at the European Researchers' Night on 26th September. Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca (Romania), the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), and NOVA University Lisbon (Portugal) will participate in this celebrated event across their respective cities as part of the EUTOPIA_HEALTH initiative.

In Cluj, the EUTOPIA_HEALTH team will showcase the wide range of health-related research conducted at Babeș-Bolyai University. Visitors will be invited to explore how our researchers address questions of health, well-being, and innovation through hands-on activities, interactive displays, and open conversations with scientists. The evening will also feature a presentation of the citizen science programme, offering the public a chance to see how collaborative research can actively engage and benefit the community.

In Ljubljana, the research team from the Biotechnical Faculty will showcase the fascinating technology of insect bioconversion using the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) – one of the most promising innovations for introducing sustainable management and circular bioeconomy principles into food production. Visitors will discover how insect larvae serve as an alternative protein source for animal feed production whilst enhancing animal health, and learn about the bioactive compounds found in larvae frass that promote plant resistance and disease control. The most curious and adventurous visitors will even have the chance to sample a special insect-based snack!

In Lisbon, the EUTOPIA_HEALTH project returns to Oeiras Marina to spotlight ITQB NOVA's groundbreaking Citizen Science project, SeaMic. Since its launch just months ago, SeaMic has achieved remarkable progress, developing an innovative prototype for real-time monitoring of beach water quality through active citizen scientist participation. At ERN 2025, SeaMic researchers will unveil their latest discoveries to the public, demonstrating how community engagement drives both environmental protection and public health advancement.