Want to share your research with the world? Whether it’s speaking at an international science festival, chatting with the public over coffee, or creating your own outreach project, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Here are ten science communication opportunities, from well-known international events to a few fantastic options right here in Switzerland.
1. European Researchers’ Night
What is it? European Researchers’ Night is one of the largest public engagement events in Europe, bringing researchers and the public together through interactive workshops, demonstrations, talks, exhibitions, and hands-on activities. The goal is to make research accessible and showcase the people behind the science.
Perfect for: Researchers at any career stage who want a friendly introduction to public engagement and the chance to interact directly with members of the public.
Where? Held across more than 40 European countries in universities, museums, research institutes, and public spaces.
When? 25 September 2026.
Find out more: European Researchers’ Night
2. Pint of Science
What is it? Pint of Science is a global science festival that brings researchers into pubs, cafés, and bars to share their work in a relaxed and informal setting. It aims to make science accessible to everyone while creating genuine conversations between researchers and the public.
Perfect for: Researchers looking for a fun, informal environment to practise science communication without the pressure of a formal presentation.
Where? Held in more than 500 cities across 27+ countries worldwide.
When? Annually in May. 10-12 May 2027.
Find out more: Pint of Science
3. FameLab International
What is it? FameLab is an international science communication competition where participants have just three minutes to explain a scientific concept to a non-specialist audience. No PowerPoint slides allowed—just clear communication and enthusiasm.
Perfect for: Researchers who want to build confidence, improve public speaking skills, and learn how to explain complex ideas simply.
Where? National competitions are held around the world, leading to international finals.
When? National competitions take place throughout the year depending on the country.
Find out more: FameLab Switzerland
4. Soapbox Science
What is it? Soapbox Science takes research directly into public spaces. Scientists stand on literal soapboxes in town squares, shopping streets, and parks, engaging passers-by in conversations about their work.
Perfect for: Researchers who enjoy audience interaction and want to reach people who might never attend a traditional science event.
Where? Events take place in cities across Europe and around the world.
When? Typically held throughout spring and summer, depending on the location.
Find out more: Soapbox Science
5. Three Minute Thesis (3MT)
What is it? Three Minute Thesis challenges researchers to explain their entire research project in just three minutes using a single static slide.
Perfect for: PhD students and early-career researchers wanting to improve presentation skills and communicate their work clearly to non-specialists.
Where? Hosted by universities worldwide.
When? Usually organised throughout the academic year.
Find out more: Three Minute Thesis
6. Café Scientifique
What is it? Café Scientifique events bring researchers and the public together for informal discussions about science, technology, health, and society over coffee or a drink.
Perfect for: Researchers who prefer conversation and discussion rather than standing on a stage.
Where? Held in cafés, pubs, libraries, and community venues around the world.
When? Events are organised year-round by local groups.
Find out more: Café Scientifique
Swiss Opportunities
Feeling inspired? The good news is that you don’t have to travel far to get involved. Switzerland has a thriving science communication scene, with everything from large science festivals to year-round public engagement programmes. Here are a few opportunities closer to home.
7. Scientifica
What is it? Scientifica is one of Switzerland’s largest science festivals, organised by ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich. Visitors can explore exhibits, attend talks, participate in workshops, and even visit research laboratories.
Perfect for: Researchers who enjoy hands-on engagement and want to showcase their work to large public audiences.
Where? Zurich, Switzerland.
When? Held every two years. End of August 2026.
Find out more: Scientifica
8. Science et Cité
What is it? Science et Cité is Switzerland’s national foundation for dialogue between science and society. It organises science cafés, debates, workshops, citizen science projects, and public engagement activities across the country.
Perfect for: Researchers looking for a wide variety of outreach opportunities throughout the year.
Where? Across Switzerland.
When? Programmes and events run throughout the year.
Find out more: Science et Cité
9. ScienceComm Congress
What is it? ScienceComm is Switzerland’s annual congress dedicated to science communication. It brings together researchers, communicators, journalists, educators, and outreach professionals to share ideas and best practices.
Perfect for: Researchers who want to improve their science communication skills and expand their professional network.
Where? Switzerland (location varies each year).
When? Held annually.
Find out more: ScienceComm Congress
10. Create Your Own Science Event!
What is it? Can’t find the perfect outreach opportunity? Why not create one yourself?
The Swiss National Science Foundation’s Agora programme provides funding for projects that promote dialogue between science and society. Rather than joining an existing event, researchers can use Agora funding to bring their own ideas to life.
Whether it’s a public exhibition, science café, podcast, citizen science project, workshop, school programme, or something completely new, Agora can help turn your idea into reality.
Perfect for: Researchers with a creative outreach idea who want to make a bigger impact and engage directly with their chosen audience.
Where? Switzerland.
When? Funding calls are announced periodically by the Swiss National Science Foundation.
Find out more: SNSF Agora Programme
