Why we do outreach
We believe that engaging with the public is essential and useful both for the local community and for the researchers themselves. By sharing our research and our interest in the marine environment, we build understanding and appreciation for the natural sciences. At the same time we gather feedback and perspectives from outside that keep our research relevant.
Everyone at the Centre takes part, from visiting students to group leaders. Many say they find new ways to tell their scientific story, and that they become better communicators by trying.
How we meet the public
The events we take part in through the year.
Forskningsdagene
Forskningsdagene is a national annual festival organized by the Research Council of Norway, where research and knowledge institutions present their work to the public. It has been held every year since 1995 and is one of Europe's largest national research festivals.
Forskningsdagene Bergen offers a selection of events each year, including a science fair, a science communication competition and school visits by researchers. The Michael Sars Centre has taken part in the science fair since 2013, presenting our model organisms and offering activities for school pupils and visitors of all ages.
One Ocean Week
One Ocean Week started in 2023, when the tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl returned from its circumnavigation. The week is a meeting place for debate and experiences related to the sustainable use of the ocean.
The One Ocean Week Family Day is a popular event where local actors from marine research and industry offer displays and activities for all ages. We bring microscopes and live animals from our facilities.
Researchers' Night at the Bergen Aquarium
Researchers' Night is held every autumn as part of the European Researchers' Night. The Michael Sars Centre takes part at the Bergen Aquarium with activities where the public can look at marine animals, try a puzzle of the anatomy of a comb jelly and talk to our researchers.
Guided visits to laboratories and facilities
We host students and school pupils on guided visits to the laboratories and animal facilities, so that they can see marine research up close. We also welcome Norwegian and international researchers, which brings new perspectives and lays the ground for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Do you want to visit us with a class or a group? Get in touch well in advance and we will find a format that works.