Case study:

Notte Europea dei Ricercatori

A strategic partnership for science communication with the University of Bologna

Together with Alma Mater Studiorum, we transformed the heart of the city into a science village,
fully managing two consecutive editions and expanding the project in 2025 with new venues and activities.

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Notte europea dei ricercatori

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Background

Client:

Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world.

The challenge:

The University wanted to transform the European Researchers’ Night into a memorable, engaging event capable of showcasing research and involving citizens of all ages. Search On was selected as the partner to manage the project’s logistical, organisational, and administrative complexity, allowing researchers to focus entirely on their work while delivering a seamless and engaging experience for the public.

In 2024, the goal was to organise a large-scale event in the heart of the University Campus. In 2025, the challenge doubled: managing multiple locations — Piazza Scaravilli, Palazzo Poggi, and the Navile University District — alongside an even broader programme of activities and exhibition stands.

Our Solution:
an End-to-End project

We acted as an extension of the University’s team, ensuring complete and integrated management across two consecutive editions of the event.

Project Management & Coordination

Single point of contact and constant communication with the UniBo team.
Detailed planning of every phase, from concept to reporting.

Researcher Management

Engagement and support of 67+ research groups.
Development of science communication formats, technical support, and full logistics.

Logistics & Bureaucratic Management

Permits, safety plans, SIAE, and coordination with the Municipality and Police Headquarters.
Full management of all administrative procedures, relieving the client of every related task.

Event Design & Production

Transforming Piazza Scaravilli, Palazzo Poggi, and the Navile District into a science village.
Design and production of 40+ stands and exhibition spaces.
Show direction, scenography, and management of 7 talks and indoor activities, including the official opening.
Floor plans, 3D renderings, and coordinated stands.

On-site Management

Venue:
Teatro del Maggio Fiorentino, transformed into a meeting place connecting young people with artists and personalities from the digital, television, and cultural worlds.