-
Date:
25 Sep 2026
-
Location:
Lisboa e São Miguel
On 25 September 2026, CE3C – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Change – will be taking part in the European Researchers’ Night, bringing science and research to various venues in Lisbon and on the island of São Miguel in the Azores.
Throughout the evening, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the work carried out by CE3C researchers through hands-on activities, experiments, items from scientific collections and demonstrations exploring topics as diverse as rare diseases, cave biodiversity, zoology and natural products.
National Museum of Natural History and Science, Lisbon
At the National Museum of Natural History and Science (MUHNAC), CE3C will be hosting two activities between 5.00 pm and midnight.
How can zebrafish help treat rare diseases?
Venue: Cloister
Time: 5.00 pm–midnight
Researchers: Cilia in Development and Disease Research Group
In this activity, visitors will be able to see zebrafish larvae which, through mutagenesis, mimic a rare disease: primary ciliary dyskinesia. The activity will enable visitors to discover how this model organism can be used to study the mechanisms involved in the disease and contribute to research into new therapeutic approaches.
Exploring the Museum’s collections
Venue: Museum stand, in the foyer
Time: 5.00 pm–midnight
Researchers: Roberto Keller and Ricardo Lopes
At the Museum stand, visitors will have the opportunity to take a closer look at some objects from the MUHNAC collections, discovering the stories and scientific knowledge contained within these artefacts. Researcher Roberto Keller will also lead a tour of the Zoology storerooms at 7.00 pm. Participation in this tour is subject to registration in the Museum foyer.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento, Lisbon
Hidden but not forgotten: threats to and conservation of European cave fauna
Venue: Superbichos
Time: 7.00 pm–midnight
Researchers: Machine Learning in Ecology Research Group
During this activity, visitors will be able to explore the visual and auditory landscapes of Portuguese caves, learn about specialised field equipment and try out some of the instruments used by the researchers. Images from fieldwork will also be presented, providing an insight into the conditions and some of the difficulties encountered whilst studying these environments.
Pavilhão do Mar, São Miguel Island, Azores
Insects in action: observing predators and prey
Time: 6.00 pm – midnight
Researchers: Agroforestry Ecology Research Group
In this interactive activity, the public will be able to discover how insects are studied in the laboratory and used in the biological control of agricultural pests. By observing Dicyphus cerastii, a natural predator, and its prey, Tuta absoluta, a major pest of tomato plants, we will demonstrate how a predator - prey food chain is established and maintained in the laboratory. Visitors will be able to observe different stages of the insects’ life cycle using a stereoscopic magnifying glass connected to a video system, learn about the materials and techniques used in entomology, and explore—through live specimens and informative material - the role of natural enemies in more sustainable agriculture.
The CE3C Natural Products and Applications research group will also be present with an activity dedicated to research into natural products.
Time: 6.00 pm–midnight
Participants will be able to learn about an experimental approach based on the DPPH method, used to determine whether a naturally sourced product contains compounds with antioxidant activity. The experiment allows participants to observe a colour change and learn, in a simple and interactive way, how researchers can assess these properties. Science will also be put to the test via a wheel of fortune with three options: Quiz, Situation and Challenge. Participants will be challenged to test their knowledge of chemistry and natural products through questions and challenges. Those who answer correctly may also receive a small reward.