Research forms the key foundation of innovation, prosperity, and social cohesion. At the same time, skepticism towards scientific findings is growing, even in Salzburg. Enter the Long Night of Research: on 24 April 2026, it will be held in Salzburg for the tenth time, making science visible, understandable, and tangible. One hundred days before this anniversary edition, Salzburg’s universities and research organizations invited guests to a sneak preview at the Chiemseehof.

Interaction builds trust

“In times of growing skepticism towards science, it is our shared responsibility to make research transparent and comprehensible,” emphasized Daniela Gutschi, the State Minister for Science and Research in the State of Salzburg. The Long Night of Research opens doors that would otherwise remain closed, enabling direct encounters with researchers. “The fact that Salzburg will be celebrating its 10th edition in 2026 shows how sustainable this format is.”

The city of Salzburg also views the Long Night of Research as an important means of facilitating exchange and participation. Dagmar Aigner, Head of the Department of Culture, Education, and Knowledge, emphasized the dialogical nature of the event: “Knowledge arises from exchange, and science thrives on being shared.” The event brings science to the heart of the city, reaching people of all ages.

Science at the heart of society

On 24 April 2026, ten locations across Salzburg’s universities and research organizations will open their doors. Visitors are invited to marvel at, discover, and talk to researchers. From digitalization and health to the environment, technology, and culture, the Long Night of Research showcases the diversity of science “made in Salzburg” and brings connections to life. As in previous years, Salzburg Research will coordinate the Long Night of Research across the State of Salzburg.

Preview shows the diversity of research in Salzburg

At the sneak preview, all participating Salzburg institutions provided a preview of the program for the 2026 Long Night of Research using selected examples.

Salzburg Research presented how artificial intelligence can support older people in their everyday lives and improve their health and well-being with its social robot, Buddy. Salzburg University of Applied Sciences demonstrated how disinformation and bot networks spread on social media and how these mechanisms can be recognized more effectively. GeoSphere Austria took the audience on a virtual tour of the Sonnblick Observatory, demonstrating how pollen and bioaerosols can be measured at high altitudes. HTL Saalfelden gave a clear explanation of how fuel cells work and their role in a sustainable energy future. The International Mozarteum Foundation invited visitors to distinguish genuine Mozart manuscripts from forgeries, encouraging them to critically examine historical sources.

The University of Education Salzburg addressed the issue of food waste, presenting interactive educational approaches to encourage more mindful consumption. Meanwhile, Paracelsus Medical University used virtual reality to demonstrate the impact of biodiversity on human well-being. Paris Lodron University of Salzburg explained how artificial intelligence can accelerate biomedical research. The Schloss Seeburg Private University tackled the issue of why complaints are often not communicated within companies and how this can hinder innovation. Finally, Mozarteum University of Salzburg showed how art and science can collaborate to inspire young people to develop sustainable visions for the future.

Anniversary with effect

Since its first edition, the Long Night of Research in Salzburg has attracted around 60,000 visitors. Over 5,000 researchers have presented their work at around 1,000 research stations. Since 2024, the event has also been organized as a green event, setting new standards in sustainability.

Once again, the 10th Long Night of Research in 2026 invites you to experience research, ask questions, and join the conversation. It is open and accessible to all and takes place at the heart of society.

Long Night of Research 2026
April 24 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Salzburg & throughout Austria
www.langenachtderforschung.at