Science After Hours: Pomeranian Researchers' Night at GMU

What happens when university corridors fill with visitors for a few hours, and researchers show the behind-the-scenes reality of their work instead of holding traditional classes? The answer could be found during Pomeranian Researchers' Night at Gdynia Maritime University.

On 25 September, GMU opened its doors to all who wished to look behind the scenes of science and see how theory works in practice. It was an opportunity not only to listen, but above all to experiment, ask questions, and discover new technologies firsthand.

This year's programme demonstrated that the sea and modern technology have far more in common than might appear. Participants were able to learn what day-to-day cybersecurity looks like, look into the world of artificial intelligence applied at sea, discover the secrets of the digital twin, and see how navigation solutions are developed and operated. The programme also featured topics related to virtual reality and future technologies.

One thing was certain – the evening left no room for boredom. Visitors could ask, test, and verify. Scientific topics were presented in an accessible manner, ensuring that both younger participants and adults found something of interest.

Pomeranian Researchers' Night also showed that science does not need to remain confined to laboratories and academic textbooks. Sometimes curiosity, a little courage, and a few hours are enough to see how engaging science can truly be.

Once again, Gdynia Maritime University proved that the sea is not just ships and ports, but also technology, innovation, and many questions to which we are only now seeking answers.

Organisers of Pomeranian Researchers' Night

The event in the Pomeranian Voivodeship is coordinated by the Medical University of Gdańsk, and its partners are Pomeranian higher education institutions – the University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdynia Maritime University, the Polish Naval Academy – alongside the scientific institute Institute of Oceanology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, the Experyment Science Centre, and the Gdynia Aquarium.

The Research4Resilience project is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme.