Essen Science Summer: Marketplace Event
Hands-on research
- von Jennifer Meina
- 16.06.2026
How do our cells communicate? What do young people think about democracy? How are 3D-printed prototypes created? Answers to these and many other questions can be found at the Marketplace Event of the Essen Science Summer. On Saturday, 20 June 2026, from 1 pm to 6 pm, Kettwiger Straße in Essen city centre will be transformed into a vibrant showcase for science, research and innovation. The UDE is taking part with a range of interactive activities that invite visitors of all ages to discover, try things out and get involved. All activities are free of charge.
Anyone interested in the medicine of the future can visit several stations: Essen University Hospital will explain how cells exchange information using so-called extracellular vesicles. It will also explain how biological samples are advancing health research. Visitors are also invited to discuss new approaches to the healthcare of tomorrow.
Social issues are also a key focus. Visitors can compare their views with the latest research findings, which reveal how young people think about democracy. The research project ‘Misogyny in Chat Communication’ highlights misogynistic online communication and encourages discussion about respectful digital spaces. At the Gender Studies stand, visitors can experience how gender can influence health, participation and career paths. In addition, various interactive stations invite visitors to get involved. These include a life-size “Game of Life” and activities exploring gender-specific differences in illness.
Education and language are also taught interactively. A workshop on inclusive education addresses conflicts and emotions in everyday school life. The project “Searching for – speaking – finding languages in the Ruhr region” invites children and adults to explore multilingualism, solve puzzles and create a dictionary together.
Tech enthusiasts can experience product innovations live in the Co-Creation Lab, see how modern 3D printing processes work and discover how ideas are turned into functional prototypes. The University Library is testing knowledge of well-known scientific myths with its “Fact or Fake?” quiz.
Weitere Informationen:
https://www.uni-due.de/digitale-souveraenitaet/2026-tagung.php