The Human Library will take place on 12 March 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., in the Tropical Greenhouse of the University of Coimbra’s Botanical Garden. The event invites participants to “read” people instead of books, engaging in direct conversations with researchers who share defining moments of their personal and scientific journeys. Through storytelling and dialogue, the initiative aims to bring science closer to society by highlighting the human experiences behind research.
Each participant will meet two human books in small groups of up to five people. Every 30‑minute session begins with the researcher’s story and unfolds into an open conversation shaped by the readers’ questions. The format encourages curiosity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the motivations, challenges, and unexpected turns that shape scientific careers.
The human books featured in this edition are Ana Rita Álvaro, Diogo Magalhães e Silva, Joana Ferreira, Lisa Oliveira Rodrigues, and Vítor Bueno. Ana Rita Álvaro (CNC‑UC) explores the role of sleep and daily routines in brain function. Joana Ferreira (MIA Portugal) reflects on curiosity, courage, and the unpredictable paths that define scientific work. Lisa Oliveira Rodrigues (iCBR‑FMUC) discusses how singing nurtures creativity and resilience in research. Vítor Bueno (CNC‑UC) connects neuroscience with electronic music, revealing parallels between brain activity and layered sound.
Representing GeneT, Diogo Magalhães e Silva, head of the Technology Transfer and Sustainability Office, shares his journey across the laboratory, the university, and society, offering insight into how he arrived in the field of knowledge transfer.
Participation is limited to 25 people, selected in order of registration, and requires prior sign‑up through the form provided by the organizers. The event is promoted by CiBB (CNC‑UC, iCBR‑FMUC, MIA Portugal and GeneT), in collaboration with Coimbra Cooletiva and the University of Coimbra’s Botanical Garden, and is part of the 2026 International Brain Week and the 28th Cultural Week of the University of Coimbra.