Transformations in Science and Technology: Researchers’ Night at BUT offers unique experiences, experiments and science shows

Transformation is a fundamental force in science and nature. This year’s theme for Researchers’ Night, taking place on Friday, September 27, revolves around this concept. As in previous years, Brno University of Technology (BUT) will participate, offering a range of exciting science shows, experiments, workshops, lectures, and exclusive tours for science enthusiasts of all ages.

Last year's Researchers' Night at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication Technology. | Autor: Václav Koníček

At eight faculties and three institutes of BUT, scientists will present a diverse programme beginning at 5:00 PM and continuing late into the night. Attendees can explore the process of turning sand into microchips, discover what happens when sugar burns, and even confront their own fears through thrilling experiences. One of the evening’s highlights will be the dramatic, meter-long lightning bolts generated by a Tesla coil, accompanied by music.

"Researchers’ Night is one of the biggest and most well-known public events aimed at promoting science. Our experts will host over a hundred activities, workshops, and experiments, showcasing the beauty of technological innovation, scientific research, and emerging technologies," said Lenka Svobodová, the coordinator for BUT’s participation in the event.

What transformative discoveries await at BUT’s Researchers’ Night?

At the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, visitors can enjoy a hydrogen show and delve into the "sweet secrets" of sugar. Learn how our bodies process sugar and the energy hidden within a single cube. People can also take a virtual tour of the Dukovany Nuclear Power Plant, where they will explore the reactor, turbine, and cooling tower. Professors will lead discussions on topics like nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, electromobility, and the changing nature of the sun. For an extraordinary experience, head to the 19th floor of the A1 high-rise building for a stunning panoramic view of Brno!

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication Technology will showcase remarkable technical innovations. Experts will explain a variety of transformations — from turning sand into microchips to radioactive decay, energy transfers, and how electrical engineering shapes our world. Visitors can also learn about smart charging technologies and how CT scanners work. Children will love the interactive Electricarium, and everyone will be captivated by the sounds and sights of the Tesla coil’s electrifying performance.

At the Centre of Sports Activities, attendees can explore how technological advancements are transforming the world of sports. Visitors test their athletic abilities, analyze movements, and try out devices measuring fatigue, reaction time, and muscle strength. They can even take a spin on electric scooters.

Over at the Faculty of Information Technology, a fire show, escape games, and a guided tour, including some areas normally off-limits, will provide a fascinating experience. Visitors can also learn how deepfakes are made, explore the world of biometrics, pilot a drone in augmented reality, and confront their fears through a virtual reality traumatic experience.

At the Faculty of Civil Engineering, you can try your hand at being a bridge builder, welder, or crane operator. Explore the transformations of water and building materials, and learn how structures withstand forces and stress. Don’t miss the chance to engrave wood or navigate a tricky laser maze to retrieve a hidden diamond!

The Institute of Forensic Engineering will offer simulations of lighting conditions during driving, along with a lecture titled There's No Light Like Light. Visitors can discover how cars are transformed in traffic accidents, and through special glasses, experience how human perception is altered by alcohol or drugs.

The Faculty of Chemistry will delight guests with a captivating chemistry show filled with surprises and experiments. Visitors will get an insider’s view of a locked laboratory, learn what a chemist’s work entails, and see firsthand how scientific discoveries are reshaping the world.

At the CEITEC BUT, X-ray tomography will be used to peer inside everyday objects, even those brought by visitors. They will also experience material transformations up close, see experiments with nanorobots, and take a rare tour of clean laboratories.

The Faculty of Business and Management will focus on bringing ideas to life. Learn how branding works, how to set up effective communication, and what it takes to launch a startup. Visitors can even try their hand at recording a podcast, while younger guests can enjoy a science corner dedicated to children.

At the Faculty of Architecture, architecture enthusiasts will discover how interactive architecture is designed to adapt to human needs. Experts will also explore how the environment transforms over time and discuss sustainable practices in their work.

The Faculty of Fine Arts will uncover the mysteries behind game, graphic, and product design. You’ll also have the chance to see student projects currently in development at the faculty.

University student teams will be on hand to present their latest innovations. TU Brno Racing will showcase the Dragon e4 formula racing car, with a simulator available for testing. Chicken Wings will display their newest competition aircraft models, while strojLAB will reveal the latest projects being developed in their student workshop.

Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. | Autor: Václav Koníček

Calling all science enthusiasts!

The programme is designed for families, schoolchildren, students, and the general public. Admission is free for all activities, although some may require registration. Like last year, a special free bus service will run throughout the evening, connecting the Bohunice University Campus, Česká, and Technology Park, with buses departing every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM into the night.

Researchers’ Night has been held in the Czech Republic since 2005 and aims to show the public that science is far from boring. Across hundreds of locations throughout Europe, universities, scientific institutes, and research centers will open their doors for this one-night event, offering free tours, lectures, workshops, experiments, and science shows.

A detailed programme of the Researchers’ Night at BUT can be found on the organizer's website.