Utrecht Science Week 2024: 3 Programme Highlights
From 27 September to 6 October, Utrecht Science Week highlights health and sustainability through events like a debate on scientific activism, a preventive health seminar, and the Sustainable City Challenge finale.
Utrecht Science Week: 3 Programme Highlights
The Utrecht Science Week takes place from 27 September to Sunday 6 October. During this week, the Utrecht Science Park opens its doors to anyone interested in (applied) science. A diverse programme has been put together, with a strong focus on the themes of health and sustainability.
Nearly 20 programme items have already been announced. Below, three of them are highlighted:
House of Commons Debate: Activism by Researchers and Research Supporters
On Tuesday 1 October, the House of Commons-style debate “Activism by Researchers and Research Supporters” will take place, moderated by Professor Erik van Sebille (Oceanography and Public Engagement).
Researchers and research supporters are not only expected to produce excellent research, but also to make a meaningful societal impact. While individuals adopt different approaches—ranging from public outreach to activism—there is no consensus in the research community on which forms of engagement are most effective, nor on whether activism affects the credibility of those involved.
This debate session (by invitation only) will explore arguments for and against researcher activism in a dynamic, participatory format.
Interactive Preventive Health Seminar
Preventive health has become a cornerstone in promoting long-term well-being and reducing pressure on the healthcare system.
On Thursday 3 October, this seminar will showcase how transdisciplinary collaboration—between healthcare professionals, researchers, communities, urban planners, and policymakers—is essential for designing and implementing effective preventive health interventions. Through real-world examples, including lifestyle initiatives and the creation of healthy urban districts, participants will see how transdisciplinary research translates into practice.
Are you a researcher working on preventive health, lifestyle, or healthy living environments? Join the seminar and learn how others are approaching these vital topics.
Final of the Sustainable City Challenge
In collaboration with regional partners, student teams from vocational (MBO), applied sciences (HBO), and academic (WO) institutions work together to tackle sustainability challenges that aim to make Utrecht healthier, more liveable, and greener. Themes include greening & biodiversity, mobility, energy, circular economy, and healthy urban living.
The challenge concludes with an exhibition and the grand finale on Friday 4 October, where the most promising ideas will be presented through student pitches—followed by the announcement of the winner.
Join us on 4 October to discover the students’ innovative ideas and creations during the Sustainable City Challenge finale.
Living Lab in the Spotlight: Utrecht Science Park
Utrecht Science Park is home to several living labs focused on energy and circularity. These include Lumifield, which explores the generation and storage of solar energy, and the biogas digester, which uses organic waste as an energy source. On their own, these are already promising initiatives. Connected, they could become something much bigger: a functioning, learning model for a circular campus.
From student idea during challenge to ReGreen Hut at Dutch Design Week
On hot summer days, temperatures can rise significantly at Utrecht Science Park, while students are looking for places to study, relax and find some shade outdoors. At the same time, planting trees is not always straightforward: underground, the campus is crisscrossed by a dense network of cables and utility lines. So how can we create shade, greenery and places to relax without major changes to the ground?
Utrecht Science Week kicks off: social and economic impact of Utrecht Science Park in the spotlight
The sixth edition of Utrecht Science Week takes place from Friday, 25 September to Sunday, 4 October. During this time, Utrecht Science Park opens its doors to the general public, showcasing how research, innovation, and collaboration lead to tangible societal and economic impact. At the same time, the week underscores the importance of sustained investment in knowledge and innovation.
Looking back at Utrecht Science Week: research, education, and entrepreneurship in the spotlight
Utrecht Science Week 2026 has come to a close. For over a week, visitors enjoyed workshops, lectures, group discussions, and tours focused on science and innovation at Utrecht Science Park. With more than thirty program activities across over 25 locations, there were ample opportunities to experience science up close. We look back on a fantastic week that once again highlighted the essential role of collaboration, and the combination of research, education, and entrepreneurship, in addressing the societal challenges of our time.