EUROPEAN RESEARCHERS’ NIGHT 2026 · 25–26 SEPTEMBER 2026
Manchester
INSTITUTION
The University of Manchester
VENUE
Manchester Science and Industry Museum
ACTIVITIES
An open exploration environment
There is no predefined path: visitors can start anywhere and move through the space according to their interests and curiosity. Every activity contributes to one shared investigation.
Activity programme
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Entrance
At the entrance, visitors receive their ERNEST passport and a very brief introduction to the event. This area establishes the visual identity and narrative tone, with the cat as symbolic guide.
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Acceler8Escape
Welcome to Acceler8Escape where you will be placed inside a particle accelerator, working in teams to solve 8 interactive puzzles corresponding to key elements of an accelerator. Each puzzle mimics real-life research skills through combinations of visual, audio and physical problem-solving, revealing a code that unlocks a customized stamp for participants to complete their “accelerator passport” within a time-limit. Acceler8Escape provides a fun, immersive, hands-on experience for all ages to access, engage with and learn all about the fascinating science of particle accelerators.
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EU Explorer
An area that connects the experience to the wider context of European research, showing how ERNEST activities belong to a larger collaborative scientific effort.
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Debrief Area
A quieter but visible space where visitors can interact with researchers, reflect on what they experienced and connect the activities to real scientific concepts.