From 28 September to 2 October 2026, Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) will host its second Science and Innovation Week, focusing this year on the impact of research conducted at the University and its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The five-day programme is centred on the theme “MRU Research Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals”.

The Science and Innovation Week will showcase the wide range of research and initiatives carried out at MRU, spanning social sciences, law, economics, political science, communication and other fields. Alongside research findings, particular attention will be given to how research and scientific knowledge can be applied to address challenges facing society, the state and the international community.

Five Days, Different Perspectives on the Impact of Research

The Science and Innovation Week programme will feature research events, thematic sessions, discussions, meetings with social and public sector partners, specialised training for researchers, networking activities and other academic initiatives. The week will also provide an opportunity to explore the work of MRU laboratories and research centres, foster collaboration across academic disciplines and share research findings and good practices.

28 September – Pre-Conference Day will focus on environmental monitoring using drones, the responsible use of artificial intelligence in research, academic ethics, the societal impact of research and sustainability.

29 September – Opening Day will highlight MRU research on sustainable development, innovation and its practical applications. The programme will include the official opening of the Science and Innovation Week, laboratory presentations, workshops for early-career researchers, and discussions on climate change, inclusion, innovation and organisational resilience.

30 September – Research and Practice Discussion Day will address current societal challenges and possible solutions. The programme will explore topics including health, education, child well-being, security, justice, climate change, artificial intelligence and technology.

1 October – Researchers’ Day will focus on professional networking, international cooperation and capacity building among MRU, ERUA and Ukrainian researchers. The programme will include seminars on research data management, scholarly publishing, mentoring, global challenges and researcher well-being.

2 October – Closing Day will focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, interaction between doctoral students and academic staff, and the achievements of early-career researchers. The week will conclude with awards recognising MRU researchers for activities contributing to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

International Engagement and the Voices of Early-Career Researchers

International engagement and the involvement of early-career researchers are important elements of this year’s Science and Innovation Week. The programme will incorporate the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) Early-Career Researchers’ Week, featuring activities focused on professional development, international cooperation, discussion and networking.

The programme will also include the international conference “Social Transformations in Contemporary Society” (STICS), organised by the MRU Doctoral Students’ Society. The conference will bring together doctoral students from ERUA universities, providing an opportunity to present their research, exchange insights and engage in academic dialogue on contemporary social transformations.

In this way, the Science and Innovation Week will provide a space not only to showcase research, but also to build new connections across academic disciplines, institutions and generations – from experienced researchers to those at the beginning of their academic careers.

Connecting Research with Real-World Societal Challenges

This year’s programme highlights one of the central themes of the Science and Innovation Week: the connection between research and real-world social change. Health, education, child well-being, climate change, security, justice, technological development and artificial intelligence are challenges that extend beyond individual academic disciplines and require knowledge, perspectives and collaboration across fields.

From this perspective, the Sustainable Development Goals provide a common framework for viewing MRU’s research activities in a broader context and exploring how research across different fields can contribute to social well-being, responsible institutional action, innovation and a more sustainable future.

The Science and Innovation Week events will take place from 28 September to 2 October 2026 at MRU in Vilnius and Marijampolė, with some activities held in a hybrid format.

Programme and registration can be found here.