The FNR is pleased to communicate that 13 of 16 projects were selected for funding in the 2025-2 PSP Classic Call, an FNR commitment of 462,920 EUR. Through the PSP (Promoting Science to the Public), the FNR supports projects that bring science closer to the general public or students. The next PSP-Classic deadline is 3 March 2026, 14:00 CET.
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| May The Forces Be With You | Interdisciplinary school project | Lycée Robert-Schuman Luxembourg | Anne Weis | 9,568 € |
| Abstract | Les élèves des classes de 3C et de 3BC participeront cette année à un projet interdisciplinaire autour d’un thème commun : les forces. Ce projet, intitulé “May the Forces Be With You”, a pour objectif de relier les apprentissages théoriques et pratiques en physique à des applications concrètes dans différents domaines scientifiques. Tous les élèves débuteront par une étude approfondie des forces en cours de physique, à travers la théorie, des travaux pratiques et des exercices variés. Les notions abordées s’inscrivent dans le programme officiel de 3C et 3BC et incluent notamment : les différentes forces et leurs caractéristiques et les effets de diverses forces. Ces bases permettront aux élèves de mieux comprendre les phénomènes physiques qui interviennent dans de nombreuses situations du monde réel. À partir de cette base commune, les deux classes poursuivront le projet selon des orientations spécifiques : Les élèves de 3BC se consacreront à leur mission CanSat, un projet interdisciplinaire qui les plongera dans l’univers passionnant de l’astronomie, de la physique et de l’exploration spatiale. Ils y développeront des compétences en programmation embarquée, en conception technique et en analyse de données, à travers la réalisation et le lancement d’un mini-satellite (CanSat). Les élèves de 3C, quant à eux, exploreront les forces dans différents milieux de vie : l’eau, l’air et le sol. Ils s’intéresseront aux adaptations des organismes vivants à ces milieux, en analysant comment les forces physiques influencent leurs formes, leurs mouvements et leurs comportements. Afin de relier la théorie à la pratique, les deux classes participeront à des sorties et voyages scientifiques. Ces activités permettront aux élèves de vivre concrètement les phénomènes étudiés en laboratoire ou en classe, tout en renforçant leur curiosité et leur esprit scientifique. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Scinema | Event series | University of Luxembourg | Jean-Marc Schlenker | 11,372 € |
| Abstract | Le projet permettra d’attirer vers la communication scientifique un public qui ne s’y intéresse pas encore, grâce à six séances qui réuniront chacune la projection d’un film en relation avec un thème scientifique, suivie d’une discussion avec des experts scientifiques à propos du contenu du film, puis d’une période d’échanges informels. Le projet prévoit quatre séances publiques, et deux séances dans des lycées. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Studienreise: Erkennen Von Ökologischen Zusammenhängen Anhand Der Untersuchung Verschiedener Ökosysteme Auf Der Insel Norderney Im Niedersächsischen Wattenmeer. | Scientific trip | Lycée Technique Ettelbruck | Iris May | 13,600 € |
| Abstract | Bei unserem Projekt “”Erkennen von ökologischen Zusammenhängen anhand der Untersuchung verschiedener Ökosysteme auf der Insel Norderney im niedersächsischen Wattenmeer”” handelt es sich um eine Studienreise zur Insel Norderney, einer ostfriesischen Insel, die in der Nordsee dem Festland von Niedersachsen vorgelagert ist. Die Reise sowie deren Vor- und Nachbereitungen in der Schule werden jedes Jahr hauptsächlich durch die Lehrpersonen der Biologieabteilung des Lycée Technique von Ettelbrück (LTEtt) organisiert. Das Projekt wird bereits seit über 10 Jahren im LTEtt ‚ durchgeführt und hat sich als eine Art “”classe de mer”” in die Schulkultur integriert. Die 56 Schüler:innen und 12 Begleiter, welche dieses Jahr mit ans Wattenmeer dürfen, stammen aus den Klassen 3GPS(F) und 3GSN(F), welche Gesundheits-, Sozial- oder naturwissenschaftliche Berufe anstreben. Die Organisation und Teilnahme an einer derartig einmaligen Studienreise passt nicht nur in den Rahmen des Lehrplans, sondern ermöglicht es auch, spezifische Inhalte zu veranschaulichen und angestrebte Kompetenzen im sozial-edukativen Bereich zu fördern! Die Schüler:innen lernen schon im Vorfeld zur Studienreise den Umgang mit den Materialien und Instrumenten, die sie während der Reise benutzen werden. Während der Nachbereitung erstellen die Schüler:innen Berichte zu ihren Forschertagen vor Ort und verarbeiten die Erkenntnisse aktiv durch das Erarbeiten eines Stationenlernens zu den verschiedenen Schwerpunkten die auf der Insel behandelt wurden (Geographische Lage, Tourismus, Vogelwelt, Wattenmeer, Dünen, Natur- und Umweltschutz…). Zu diesem forschend entdeckenden Stationenlernen werden v.a. Schüler:innen des Untergrades unseres Gymnasiums (5e) und Eltern der an der Studienreise teilnehmenden Schüler:innen eingeladen, um so nicht nur das Projekt einem breiteren Publikum vorzustellen, sondern auch die Kommunikationskompetenzen der Schüler:innen zu fördern. Das Zusammenarbeiten und die Austauschmöglichkeiten zwischen dem Naturparkhaus Norderney und dem LTEtt ist dabei nicht nur für die Schüler:innen, sondern auch für das Lehrpersonal interessant. Einige unserer Lehrpersonen sind auch in naturkundlichen Instituten in Luxemburg engagiert, wie zum Beispiel dem Nationalmuseum für Naturgeschichte und dem SNJ Zentrum in Hollenfels “”Natur erliewen””. Dadurch werden unsere didaktischen Unterlagen jedes Jahr aufgearbeitet und innovative didaktische Materialien ausprobiert. Die Resultate der Aktivitäten werden jedes Jahr digital festgehalten (anhand von Tabellen und Grafiken) um sie von Jahr zu Jahr vergleichen zu können, und eine Art Langzeitversuch zu ermöglichen. Dies erlaubt uns, zu analysieren, wie sich die Inselökologie, die Artenzusammensetzung und die Biodiversität über die Jahre hinweg verändert. Die Wertschätzung der verschiedenen Elemente der Studienreise bei den Teilnehmern wird schließlich durch eine Umfrage ermittelt, und die Reise des folgenden Jahres dementsprechend angepasst. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Normandie 2026 – St Pair Sur Mer | Scientific trip | Ecole Privée Fieldgen | René Kramer | 14,000 € |
| Abstract | Ce projet interdisciplinaire de l’École Privée Fieldgen, destiné aux élèves des classes 7eC, allie immersion linguistique, historique et scientifique. Il s’intègre pleinement au programme scolaire et met l’accent sur la démarche scientifique active, en lien avec l’écosystème marin. Le projet se décline en trois phases. La première, en classe, prépare les élèves aux méthodes scientifiques :construction de protocoles expérimentaux, utilisation de techniques de mesure, identification d’espèces, compréhension des facteurs environnementaux, acquisition du vocabulaire scientifique en cours de français, et exploration du contexte historique en lien avec la Seconde Guerre mondiale. La deuxième phase se déroule lors d’un séjour pédagogique en Normandie, en partenariat avec la « Ligue de l’enseignement ». Les élèves y mènent un véritable travail de recherche en binômes ou trinômes : formulation d’une problématique, conception et réalisation d’une expérience, collecte et analyse de données. Cette immersion leur permet de vivre toutes les étapes du raisonnement scientifique, avec un encadrement individualisé et des plages horaires dédiées à la réflexion sur la question de recherche et la démarche expérimentale. La troisième phase, après le retour, est consacrée à la valorisation des résultats : création de posters, de films ou de présentations expérimentales, exposés lors d’une soirée publique au lycée en fin juin 2026. Ce travail de restitution développe chez les élèves des compétences en communication scientifique et favorise la consolidation des apprentissages. Le projet, en parfaite adéquation avec les objectifs du programme de 7e, place les élèves au cœur de l’action scientifique. Il intègre également les retours d’expérience des années précédentes, notamment par l’introduction d’un dossier méthodologique et l’encouragement à une prise de notes structurée. Cette approche immersive, interactive et rigoureuse rend l’apprentissage plus concret, plus profond et plus motivant pour les élèves. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Science Pub Quiz – Second Edition | Quiz series | University of Luxembourg | Christophe Ley | 18,427 € |
| Abstract | The project involves organizing science-themed pub quizzes featuring a guest scientist. These quizzes will cover a broad range of scientific topics rather than focusing on a single subject. Each quiz will consist of 4-5 rounds, with one round dedicated to the guest scientist. Christophe Ley and his research team (MIDAS), and Hanna Siemaszko, host of the SciLux Podcast, will design the questions and moderate the evening. The special round’s questions will be created in collaboration with the guest scientist and will revolve around their research. The guest scientist will then provide the answers and offer deeper insights into their research topic. The quizzes will take place at Café Saga in Belval. The main goal is to bring science outreach beyond the university setting and into the relaxed atmosphere of a pub. This approach aims to engage an audience that typically does not attend science outreach events. Additionally, it seeks to bring together different communities, such as pub quiz enthusiasts, scientists, and people working or studying in Belval, who do not often interact at the same events. The quiz will be shorter than usual to allow participants time to mingle and converse afterward. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Mat Häerz, Kapp an Hand – Entdecken, Fuerschen a Gestalten am Schoulgaart zu Hamm | School garden workshop | Ecole fondamentale de Hamm | Cathia Friederich | 28,830 € |
| Abstract | „Mat Häerz, Kapp an Hand – Entdecken, Fuerschen a Gestalten am Schoulgaart zu Hamm“ ist ein Bildungsinnovationsprojekt, das den Schulgarten als lebendiges Labor nutzt, um ökologisches Bewusstsein, forschendes Lernen und gemeinschaftliche Teilhabe zu fördern. Ziel ist, Biodiversität nicht nur als Unterrichtsthema, sondern als alltägliche Erfahrung in der Schulkultur erlebbar zu machen. Viele Kinder erfahren Natur heute vor allem über vermittelte oder abstrakte Darstellungen, mit wenigen Möglichkeiten zur direkten Auseinandersetzung. Durch die Gestaltung eines neuen Schulgartens werden natürliche Prozesse greifbar, dynamisch und vernetzt erlebbar. Der Garten wird zum pädagogischen Raum, in dem Beobachtung, Experimentieren und Reflexion integraler Bestandteil des Lernens sind. Schülerinnen und Schüler dokumentieren Wachstum, verfolgen Veränderungen und prüfen eigene Hypothesen – echtes wissenschaftliches Denken altersgerecht umgesetzt. Der Ansatz der Biodiversitätsbildung geht über reines Faktenwissen hinaus. Er fördert Neugier, ästhetisches Empfinden und Verantwortungsbewusstsein für lebendige Systeme. Kinder lernen nicht nur über die Natur, sondern mit der Natur und gestalten aktiv Bedeutungen und Zusammenhänge mit. Das Projekt wird gemeinsam mit der non-formalen Bildung gelebt und bezieht auch Familie und Nachbarschaft ein. Eltern können informell im Garten mitwirken, Kinder agieren als Botschafter, verteilen Samenbomben, bauen Insektenhotels und präsentieren ihre Arbeiten online. So wird der Garten von einer schulischen Ressource zu einer lokalen Plattform für Umweltengagement. Darüber hinaus soll ein vernetztes Modell pädagogischer Praxis entstehen. Andere Schulen in Luxemburgstadt und Umgebung werden eingeladen, den Garten zu besuchen, Materialien zu teilen oder an Workshops teilzunehmen. Methoden und Ergebnisse sollen über Peer-Learning verbreitet werden, was zugleich die berufliche Weiterentwicklung von Lehrkräften und die langfristige Skalierbarkeit der Initiative unterstützt. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Leap – Luxembourgish Interactive Exercise And Cognitive Performance Assessment For School Children | Interactive workshop | Luxembourg Health & Sport Sciences Research Institute ASBL | Khatija Bahdur | 41,847 € |
| Abstract | The LEAP project aims to make science tangible and engaging for secondary school students by combining interactive learning with sport and exercise science. Implemented by the Luxembourg Health and Sport Science Research Institute, the project immerses participants in the dual roles of sport scientist and athlete through comprehensive performance diagnostics. Students will conduct and undergo assessments evaluating visual, cognitive, motor, flexibility, speed, and endurance parameters using advanced sport and neuroscience technologies. The workshop introduces key scientific principles, including inquiry, data collection, measurement, analysis, and interpretation, while developing core scientific attitudes such as curiosity, honesty, and critical thinking. By comparing different testing methods—such as manual timing versus electronic systems—students learn about data accuracy, variability, and the integration of technology in science. They also engage with data visualization, producing personalized performance profiles to interpret their strengths and weaknesses. Through expert input from sport scientists and coaches, participants will gain insight into how diagnostic data informs training and injury prevention, highlighting the link between science and real-world sport applications. The project also encourages understanding of how artificial intelligence and big data support modern performance monitoring. A total of seven workshops will engage around 140 students, promoting direct interaction with scientists and professional-grade equipment. Each participant receives a personalised results booklet with suggested training exercises, reinforcing learning beyond the classroom, increasing reach and ensuring the project’s sustainability. Ultimately, LEAP seeks to foster scientific literacy, inspire curiosity about careers in science and sport, and demonstrate that science is dynamic, practical, and accessible. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Orbytecraft: Hands-on Space Engineering For Pupils | Hands-on workshop | University of Luxembourg | Niki Sajjad | 45,850 € |
| Abstract | OrbyteCraft is a hands-on workshop program for secondary school students (14+) that introduces them to space systems engineering. The program sparks curiosity and creativity, giving students a real sense of what working in the space sector feels like. Through teamwork, problem-solving, and building, students design sustainable space missions and experience the full engineering cycle, from concept development to subsystem integration and data analysis. The program consists of three fully planned workshop themes: Space Mission Designer (mission design, orbit selection, and spacecraft system and subsystems), Small Satellite Builder (constructing and programming simplified satellite models), and Mission Operator (building a ground station, receiving signals, and analyzing data). Each workshop will be delivered multiple times in formats agreed with Scienteens Lab and ESERO (short one-day sessions and medium four day format), and a long 12-session trimester program at Lycée Michel Rodange. These repeated sessions allow us to evaluate which approaches and themes best engage students. Over the year, the program will reach around 340 students, including at least 150 girls through the Girls in IT initiative, and provide two dedicated teacher workshops. Outcomes, including student designs and code, will be shared on open-access platforms. Evaluation includes interactive surveys and reflective activities to capture learning, confidence, and engagement. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Getbrainhealthy Open-air Cinema | Public event / awareness campaign | University of Luxembourg | Laure Pauly | 50,806 € |
| Abstract | To mark World Brain Day 2026 (22 July), we propose a 2–3 day public event combining open-air cinema and brain health awareness. Scheduled for the weekend of 17–19 July 2026 in Hesperange (Luxembourg), this centrally located and accessible venue will host a rich mix of entertainment, education, and scientific engagement aimed at raising awareness and curiosity about brain health. This initiative is part of the broader GetBrainHealthy campaign, a three-year PSP-Flagship-funded project dedicated to promoting brain health science among pupils, students, and working populations. This event expands the campaign’s outreach to the general public, fostering community-wide engagement and dialogue around brain health. Cinema serves as the central medium of engagement, with five curated film screenings—two family-friendly afternoon sessions and three evening features for adults—each thematically linked to a brain health topic such as dementia, traumatic brain injury, or Parkinson’s disease. Films like Still Alice, Concussion, or Awakenings will be paired with expert-led discussions and interactive booths hosted by key partners, including Info-Zenter Demenz, Alzheimer Luxembourg Association, Programme Démence Prévention, ParkinsonNet, and others. Children’s screenings, such as Inside Out will introduce basic neuroscience and emotional literacy in an age-appropriate way. Interactive and practice-oriented methods will be central to the event. Together with local institutions such as the Luxembourg Science Center, Scienteens Lab, and the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, we will offer hands-on activities that bring brain science to life. The GetBrainHealthy team will host its own booth with engaging materials on brain anatomy, function, and protective behaviors, while other partners will provide informative rollups, giveaways, and thematic content tailored to their expertise. Each screening will be preceded by a myth-busting quiz session designed to debunk common neuromyths. To further inspire the audience, each screening will open with a short video featuring our Brain Health Ambassador series—well-known Luxembourgish personalities such as Frank Schleck (cyclist), Vera Hoffmann (Olympian runner), and Mr Science (science communicator from the FNR)—as part of our brain health awareness campaign planned for March 2026. Furthermore, we aim to promote public engagement in science by informing attendees about how to participate in ongoing brain research projects in Luxembourg. This includes the Brain Health Survey and opportunities offered by other research institutions. By connecting the public with research, we aim to foster scientific literacy, trust, and collaboration between citizens and the scientific community. To close each evening, we invite attendees to stay for a discussion with experts—including researchers, clinicians, and representatives from local services—reflecting on the themes of the film and encouraging open dialogue around brain health. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Shapes | Interactive exhibition | University of Luxembourg | Bruno Teheux | 54,100 € |
| Abstract | Ce projet d’exposition interactive explore les liens entre mathématiques, sciences et art dans une collaboration internationale réunissant l’Université du Luxembourg, l’Université de Fribourg, l’Agence luxembourgeoise d’action culturelle (ALAC) et le Musée national d’histoire naturelle (MNHN). L’exposition sera installée au Cercle Cité (Luxembourg ville) de mi-octobre 2026 à mi-janvier 2027, ouverte sept jours sur sept avec médiation continue. Elle proposera des installations interactives collaboratives, des œuvres d’artistes régionaux et internationaux, ainsi que des échantillons du MNHN illustrant la géométrie dans la nature. Le programme cadre comprend des visites guidées grand public, des ateliers pour enfants de 6-12 ans (objectif : 400-500 enfants), des visites thématiques au MNHN en trois langues, une conférence et une table ronde croisant regards artistiques et scientifiques. Le projet vise plusieurs milliers de visiteurs. Le financement principal est assuré par l’ALAC. La demande FNR couvre essentiellement le programme cadre, la communication et les honoraires artistiques. Après Luxembourg, l’exposition connaîtra une nouvelle vie à Fribourg dès mars 2027, avec une réinterprétation du concept assurant une dimension internationale pérenne. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| The many faces of science: a constellation of scientific events | Event series | Luxembourg Science Center | Alexandra Grosbusch | 57,079 € |
| Abstract | The Luxembourg Science Center (LSC) is a national institution dedicated to sparking curiosity and engagement with science through interactive exhibits, workshops, and shows. Its mission is to make science accessible, inspiring, and relevant for everyone.Science communication plays a crucial role in connecting research with society by making complex knowledge understandable and relevant. It builds public trust, combats misinformation, and inspires future generations to engage with science. The LSC embraces this mission through a new series of large-scale thematic events in 2026, each focusing on a different branch of science to showcase its diversity and relevance. Five major events will take place throughout the year: Euler’s Days, Ocean Days: The Third Wave, Health Day, Culture Meets Science Days, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Days. Together, they form a constellation of experiences designed to make science more engaging and inclusive, encouraging participants to explore new fields and understand how all sciences interconnect. Euler’s Days will explore the beauty of mathematics through interactive workshops like Bubbles & Beyond and talks by experts such as Dr. Ann Kieffer and artist Dr. Matías Gárate. Health Day will focus on biomedical sciences with activities like Human Tissues Under the Lens and Bacterial Balance: Heroes vs Villains, alongside talks from the Luxembourg Institute of Health. Culture Meets Science Days will bridge art and science through creative experiences, including a musical planetarium show with United Instruments of Lucilin and The Color Lab on pigments. Ocean Days will raise awareness about marine science and conservation through workshops such as Coral Architect and Echolocation, while AI Days will uncover the science behind artificial intelligence with sessions like Are Computers Blind? and Human vs AI. Through this program, the LSC aims to strengthen the connection between science and society by offering accessible, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences. Each event provides a unique lens into a scientific discipline while showing how different fields intertwine to shape our understanding of the world. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| Gameco: Game Mediated Collaboration: Research Workshops For Students | Educational outreach | University of Luxembourg | Patrick Sunnen | 57,441 € |
| Abstract | GaMeCo – Research Workshops for Students is an educational outreach initiative designed to engage secondary school students (aged 12–14) in the scientific study and practice of collaboration through digital game environments. Building on the serious game Orbitia, developed by the University of Luxembourg (UL) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), the project invites students to explore how teamwork and problem-solving can be observed, analysed, and fostered through gameplay and game design principles. In collaboration with LIST and the BTS programmes Game Programming and Game Design at the Lycée des Arts et Métiers, Orbitia will be upgraded and refactored into a web-based, tablet-compatible version with enhanced missions, improved graphics, and a revised scoring system. These developments will enable flexible use in classroom and research contexts while offering students hands-on experience with a cutting-edge digital learning tool. The project consists of a three-part workshop series implemented in several secondary schools. Students first analyse, reflect on, and practise collaborative problem-solving through Orbitia gameplay; then, they identify key design features that support collaboration in digital games; and finally, they participate in Mission: Teamwork—a campus-based competitive event where selected teams demonstrate their skills before a jury and invited guests. GaMeCo provides students with a deeper understanding of teamwork, scientific reasoning, and game-mediated learning. Furthermore, the project will result in a freely accessible educational package—including the upgraded Orbitia web platform and accompanying pedagogical materials. | |||
| Project title | Activity type | Organisation | Applicant | FNR funding |
| It Takes Two To Oяtho – Luxembourg: Experience The Science Of Studying Collaboration And Mathematics Learning With Digital Tools And Environments. | Interactive science exhibit | Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER) | Catalina Lomos | 60,000 € |
| Abstract | “It Takes Two to OЯTHO —Luxembourg: Experience the science of studying collaboration and mathematics learning with digital tools and environments” is an interactive science exhibit at the Luxembourg Science Center that invites visitors to become both players and researchers. OЯTHO is a two-player digital game, where each participant controls movement in only one direction: one player moves the ball left and right, while the other player moves it up and down. In order to guide the ball along the track, the players must coordinate their actions, discovering together how collaboration works in problem solving. This playful setup is based on an important mathematical concept: the Cartesian coordinate system, which connects the game to the worlds of mathematics and spatial reasoning. Led by Dr. Catalina Lomos, the project builds on her research using eye tracking and digital learning tools to understand how people learn mathematics and interact. Here, the public will see science in action. While playing, eye-tracking glasses and a camera will record where the players look and how they interact while working with the digital learning environment (with full consent). Afterwards, players can view their data on a nearby screen and discuss what it reveals about teamwork and learning with digital tools. The goal is to not only show how researchers study how we learn and interact with mathematics through digital environments, but also to bring science closer to the public by showing how researchers acquire the data to study behavior, learning, and collaboration when using digital learning tools and environments, and how designers or learning games conceptualize and improve their product. Families, children, and school groups will experience how scientists ask questions, collect evidence, and interpret results in the digital age. By transforming visitors into participants in real social science, the project bridges the gap between scientific research and public curiosity. The project demonstrates that learning, like science itself, is a shared human adventure, even when performed with and around digital tools. | |||