On 20 September, CIIMAR opened its doors once again to the community bringing marine science closer to visitors of all ages through a full day of science outreach activities.
On 20 September, CIIMAR once again opened its doors to 20.000 visitors at the Porto Cruise Terminal, as part of the “Dia do Porto de Leixões”, bringing marine science closer to visitors of all ages through a full day of science outreach activities. The programme was free and open to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Throughout the day, visitors had the opportunity to explore the diversity of research carried out at CIIMAR through the Science Exhibition, with interactive displays covering topics ranging from intertidal ecosystems and freshwater environments to deep-sea research, aquaculture and marine monitoring.
The exhibition also highlighted CIIMAR’s work on some of the most pressing challenges facing marine and freshwater ecosystems. Visitors learned about the monitoring of cetaceans and microplastics, explored different approaches to environmental decontamination, and discovered the potential of marine-derived pharmaceuticals.
A special focus was given to the organisms that support much of this research, particularly those preserved in CIIMAR’s biobanks. At the CIIMAR Blue Biobank stand, visitors could take a closer look at cyanobacteria, microalgae, bacteria, sponges and corals, gaining a better understanding of their importance for research and innovation.
The programme also included three cyanotype workshop sessions, introducing participants to a photographic technique with more than 180 years of history. Other activities gave visitors the opportunity to meet CIIMAR researchers and learn more about the people and stories behind the science.
Photography was another central element of the programme. The 2026 CIIMAR Scientific Photography Contest exhibition presented images taken by CIIMAR team members, offering different perspectives on the organisms, environments and research that are part of CIIMAR’s work. Outside the terminal, visitors could also explore the “Wiki Loves Earth” exhibition, mentored by CIIMAR, which highlights protected natural areas in Portugal through photography.
Throughout the day, a movie lounge offered another way to experience CIIMAR’s research, bringing science to the screen through a selection of videos from the 25 Tons de Azul series.
Held in parallel with the “Dia do Porto de Leixões”, the CIIMAR Open Day reinforced the institution’s commitment to sharing scientific knowledge with society and creating opportunities for direct interaction between researchers and the wider community.