WORKSHOPS
This meeting is for you! Join us on the workshops we carefully catered.
Registrations are open!
NIGHT SCIENCE
Luísa Figueiredo
Group Leader at Gulbenkian Institute for Molecular Medicine (GIMM)
This workshop explores the concept of Night Science, the creative and exploratory side of research where ideas take shape, questions emerge, and unconventional connections are made—contrasting with the more structured, hypothesis-driven Day Science. Originating in François Jacob’s writings and later expanded by Itai Yanai and Martin Lercher, Night Science highlights the often overlooked role of creativity in scientific discovery. Participants will reflect on how to foster creativity in their own work, practice techniques for idea generation, and experiment with collaborative approaches. By the end, attendees will gain practical tools and strategies to nurture Night Science as a vital complement to their everyday researchcommunication tools. So come along and prepare to have fun and learn a lot!
Yes, and scientists: IMPROVing your science communication skills
Joana Loureiro
Researcher at Católica Biomedical Research Centre
The roots of improvisational theater, or Improv, go back to sixteenth-century Commedia dell’Arte in Europe, but its modern revival began in 1920s Chicago with Viola Spolin, who used theater games to engage immigrant children. Her legacy grew into Chicago’s “Second City,” birthplace of sketch comedy and many famous performers from Bill Murray to Tina Fey. Today, Improv is much more than entertainment. In the US, major companies have long used it to boost public speaking, creativity, and teamwork. Academia is also discovering its value: scientists can use improvisation to strengthen presentation skills, clarity, and audience engagement. This workshop offers a lively introduction to Improv for Scientists—a chance to practice active listening, connect with your audience, and have fun while learning new communication tools. So come along and prepare to have fun and learn a lot!
KOMBUCHA: The Experience
Renato Braz
OH K! Kombucha founder
This workshop explores the microbiology and biochemistry behind kombucha fermentation — a symbiotic process involving bacteria and yeast cultures (SCOBY). Participants will gain hands-on experience preparing a kombucha starter, monitoring fermentation parameters, and understanding the metabolic pathways responsible for its characteristic flavor, acidity, and probiotic properties. The session integrates scientific discussion with practical experimentation, offering an engaging approach to microbial ecology, bioprocessing, and sustainable food biotechnology.
