The European Researchers’ Night 2026: Discover the Nature of Marine and Freshwater Science at LHEI

On the 25th of September, European Researchers’ Night 2026 will take place across Latvia. The Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology (LHEI) invites visitors to its premises at 4 Voleru street, Riga, from 17:00 to 22:00 to discover the world of marine and freshwater science, meet researchers and take part in interactive activities.

This year’s theme – “Discover the Nature of Science!” closely reflects LHEI’s work to explore the ecosystems of the Baltic Sea and Latvia’s freshwaters. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the seabed and benthic organisms, observe plankton, learn about microplastics and explore the methods and technologies scientists use to study aquatic environments.

The programme will also include demonstrations of water-quality measurements, underwater sensors and underwater noise research, as well as an opportunity to visit LHEI’s research vessel and learn how scientific samples and data are collected at sea. The Baltic Sea aquarium will introduce visitors to some of its characteristic inhabitants, while the Nature Conservation Agency’s mobile nature classroom will offer interactive activities about Latvia’s biodiversity and nature conservation.

The event is free of charge for individual visitors. Organised groups are welcome from 15:00 to 17:00 by prior registration at anete.enikova@lhei.lv.

Most activities will take place outdoors, visitors are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. The site has hard-surface access and is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments.

Photography and filming will take place during the event, and recorded materials may be used by LHEI and the event organisers for communication and publicity purposes.