Curiosity, creativity and regional transformation took centre stage in Setúbal during the fifth edition of the European Researchers’ Night. On 25 September 2026, the Polytechnic University of Setúbal (UNIPS) joined the event at Casa da Baía, inviting visitors of all ages to experience research as an open, collaborative and creative process.
From 17:00 to 22:00, the UNIPS/E³UDRES² stand welcomed the public under the theme “Conhecer o Território, Transformar o Futuro” — “Understanding the Territory, Transforming the Future”. Through interactive games and conversations, visitors were encouraged to explore how different ways of thinking can contribute to research and to the development of new solutions for regional and societal challenges.
What Kind of Researcher Are You?
One of the main activities invited participants to discover the researcher within them. In the interactive game “What Kind of Researcher Are You?”, visitors answered five questions on a tablet and received one of six playful research profiles: the Fox, Octopus, Beaver, Dolphin, Butterfly or Eagle.
Rather than defining a single way of conducting research, the profiles highlighted the value of different skills and perspectives — from observing and questioning to connecting ideas, collaborating, adapting, exploring possibilities and developing solutions.
Participants were also able to save their result through a “Save My Research DNA” card, creating a tangible reminder that research benefits from a diversity of personalities, talents and approaches.
Transforming the Territory in Three Minutes
A second activity, “Transform Your Territory in Three Minutes”, challenged visitors to turn ideas into action.
Using a digital game wheel, participants were presented with a topic connected to current regional and societal challenges, including smart cities, artificial intelligence, climate change, food waste, tourism, ageing, mental health and the circular economy.
They then had three minutes to imagine and present a concrete idea that could contribute to transforming the territory. The activity encouraged quick thinking, creativity and participation, while demonstrating that research often begins with a question, a different perspective and the willingness to explore a possible solution.
Connecting Setúbal with a European Community
Throughout the evening, visitors also had the opportunity to learn more about E³UDRES² and the opportunities made available through the Alliance and the E³UDRES² Arena.
By connecting universities, researchers, students, regional partners and local communities across Europe, E³UDRES² encourages the collaborative development of smart, sustainable, inclusive and resilient regions.
The participation of UNIPS in the European Researchers’ Night helped bring research closer to the public, spark conversations and show that everyone can contribute to the process of questioning, exploring and transforming the future.
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Article created by: UNIPS
