Researchers’ Night at RSU to explore medicine, sport, and technology

On 27 September 2024 from 18.00, Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) will offer a wide programme of free events and activities at European Researchers' Night, which will take place at the Medical Education Technology Centre (METC), 26a Anniņmuižas bulvāris, and at the RSU Latvian Academy of Sport Education (LASE), 333 Brīvības gatve. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet researchers, go on guided tours, watch shows, and take part in experiments and discussions.

Visitors to the RSU METC will have the opportunity to learn the basics of first aid, acquire skills in patient reception and care, try on the dentist’s profession, try out surgical simulators, take part in exciting chemistry experiments, visit an operating theatre, delivery room and augmented reality room, and take part in other activities.

Visitors of the Researchers' Night at RSU LASE will be greeted by a dynamic indoor orienteering game, various educational lectures, physiotherapy demonstrations, the opportunity to try out various sports equipment and exercises, as well as to take part in quizzes, guided tours, and discussions with sports science researchers.

The RSU Latvian Academy of Sport Education. Photo from the Academy’s archive

Diverse programme of activities

In total, RSU will offer more than 30 different activities in the fields of medicine, sport, technology, and innovation to ensure that every visitor, regardless of their age or interests, can find something to enjoy.

Popular Researchers’ Night activities

Last year, around 1,500 people visited the RSU METC for Researchers' Night. One of the most popular activities was filling a cavity, where students - future dentists and hygienists - gave an insight into what their daily work looks like. Also popular were the operating theatre simulators, the immersive environment, or augmented and virtual reality simulator room, and trainers. These activities are planned again this year.

At Researchers' Night in 2023, around 300 people visited RSU LASE and showed interest in the 3D virtual content game developed by Agris Liepa to improve the functions of the deep muscles of the torso and cognitive abilities. The Therabody Recovery Air compression boots and special heat and vibration goggles were very popular, as was the reaction trainer.

European Researchers' Night is a pan-European event to promote science and its achievements, which takes place every year on the last Friday of September. The event aims to promote science and educate the public, especially young people, about the importance of and achievements in science and to make science more accessible to the general public. This year's theme, "Get to Know Your Researcher!", highlights the role of scientists as guides who help uncover the sometimes-complex world of science and inspire future careers in the field.