Final Countdown to Mediterranean Researchers’ Night 2025
100 scientists from the Athena Research Center, Democritus University of Thrace, as well as local schools, organizations, and companies, bring science to Xanthi!
The Mediterranean Researchers’ Night (MEDNIGHT) returns to Xanthi on Friday, September 26, 2025, bringing a vibrant celebration of science and innovation to the Athena Research Center’s facilities at the Kimmeria Campus. The event invites audiences of all ages to explore how scientific knowledge and research impact our daily lives and the future of our planet through exhibitions,
This year’s edition focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Science, Education, Culture, and Sustainable Development, placing special emphasis on youth participation, knowledge sharing, and the power of collaboration
MEDNIGHT 2025 features over 20 pioneering activities presented by the Athena Research Center and local schools, including: Krikri – the first major large language model (LLM) for the Greek language, AI4EDU – redefining how we learn through AI, Vitalia – an interactive health and wellness game, etc.
Visitors will have the opportunity to create 3D models from their mobile phones, interact with digital twins, explore ancient textiles through AI, spin the “Demography Wheel,” and solve puzzles in escape boxes. The event also showcases robotics initiatives like “Sparmatseto Robotics,” student-led sustainable businesses, and projects such as REFIVE and 3D printing demonstrations from Xanthi high school students.
The evening will culminate with VR/AR experiences, cultural readings, and open dialogue on the future of climate, technology, and society.
MEDNIGHT is held in seven countries, Italy, Turkey, France, Greece, Cyprus, Spain, and Tunisia with the participation of over 800 researchers and an expected audience of more than 15,000 people. The initiative is funded by the European Commission through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions under the Horizon Europe programme and marks the 20th anniversary of the European Researchers’ Night, celebrated in more than 460 cities across the continent.
MEDNIGHT brings science beyond the lab into streets, hospitals, beaches, schools, and even small Mediterranean islands, with a rich and inclusive programme of workshops, performances, exhibitions, and hands-on activities for all audiences.
At its core, MEDNIGHT promotes the concept of Mediterranean Science a vision that connects cultures and communities across our shared Sea through research and discovery. It also emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that science reaches people in regions and contexts where access to such knowledge is often limited.
The MEDNIGHT consortium includes: Università degli Studi di Messina (Coordinator), CIEMAT, MUDIC, Marie Curie Alumni Association, Genopolys, CHU Toulouse, SciCo Greece, Athena Research Center, SciCo Cyprus, Monastir Science Palace, EWORA, Kadir Has University, CEU-UCH, and El Caleidoscopio, along with numerous partner institutions.
Learn more at: https://mednight.athenarc.gr/2025.