From October 2 to 12, 2026, scientists from the University Savoie Mont Blanc (USMB) mobilized across the Savoie Mont Blanc region to showcase research in new ways. Workshops, open houses, participatory experiments, and debates on artificial intelligence marked the 2026 Science Festival, highlighting their commitment to knowledge sharing and scientific curiosity.
In Annecy, the Annecy Laboratory of Particle Physics (LAPP) and the Annecy Laboratory of Theoretical Physics (LAPTh) opened their doors on October 3 and 4. LAPP celebrated its 50th anniversary of research. Approximately 1000 visitors explored the EUTOPIA Discovery Space, the MUST computing and storage center, and enjoyed interactive workshops, conferences, and fun experiments.
On October 7, five doctoral students from USMB engaged with 150 students from the Lycée de l’Albanais in Rumilly, discussing their academic paths and research. On the same day, members of the Laboratory of Informatics, Systems, Information Processing and Knowledge (LISTIC) hosted a stand at the Rumilly Science Village, titled 'The Mathematical Theory of Information: At the Origins of Digital'. Researchers also appeared live on local radio station Radio Magny.
A field trip took place on October 10, organized by the Earth Science Institute (ISTerre), allowing about sixty people to discover the Vuache fault and understand the geological origins of the Épagny earthquake (which occurred in 1996). Researchers and a doctoral student guided participants, including residents who experienced the earthquake.
During the weekend of October 10 and 11, the Science Village in Chambéry, held at the Eurêka science and culture center, attracted around 7000 visitors. 35 stands were present, with 8 hosted by USMB laboratories, offering activities such as 'The Banquet of the Celts' from LLSETI and 'FoVEquiPeut' from LIBM.
USMB's participation in the 2026 Science Festival exemplifies its scientific outreach efforts and strengthens the dialogue between science and society.
