WiseNight at the Planetarium

Two researchers from our department will be presenting at WiseNight at the Planetarium van de Koninkelijke Sterrenwacht van Brussel! WiseNight is a fun and inclusive 2-day science festival that aims to bring science and scientists in contact with the public interactively. It offers a variety of free activities, including workshops for children and youth, movie projections in the Planetarium dome, interactions with researchers, debates and a splendid photo exhibition displaying inspiring scientists of today.

Julie De Munck (Website, Linkedin) will talk about the role of turmeric in cancer research. Turmeric is a familiar kitchen spice, often used for its flavour and bright yellow colour. In recent years, it has become a “superfood hype,” added to supplements and smoothies, largely thanks to its main bioactive compound: curcumin. This yellow polyphenol has been praised for potential health benefits, but can it really help fight cancer? And what happens when scientists start tweaking curcumin’s chemical structure to make it more effective? You’ll discover it during her talk.

Elien Alderweireldt (Website, Linkedin) studies the impact of micro- and nanoplastics on our human bodies. Using human cell models to mimic the intestine and the liver, she aims to optimize the way we can study the interactions between plastic particles and human cells in the lab. In that way, we increase the understanding of plastic accumulation and the potential health effects. Discover how these tiny particles may have a large impact on your health!

You can expect an evening full of inspiring talks where women scientists take the stage to share their passion, discoveries, and research with the public. From black holes to microplastics, from medical imaging to atmospheric science –a lively program of short, engaging talks in French, Dutch, and English. Julie and Elien will present in Dutch.

Come meet scientists, ask your questions, and discover how their work is shaping our world and our future.

Free and open to everyone – no science background required, just curiosity!

When? 26 September 2025, 17h – 22h
Where? Planetarium, Brussels

More information on the festival:
Website: https://wisenight.eu/nl/homepagina/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisenight/