CIMUSET Conference 2026

Science and Technology Museums as Spaces of Hope: Connecting Communities, Knowledges, and Futures  

A conference for everyone shaping the future of science & technology museums around the globe 

Click here to download the call for papers.

Science and technology museums are active forces in public life, shaping how communities understand and engage with science, technology, and the world around them. Today, these institutions stand at the intersection of complex and intertwined societal challenges, including misinformation and disinformation, planetary crises, artificial intelligence, armed conflicts, and polarisation. At a time like this, the world urgently needs initiatives that can cultivate shared hope and support the imagining of better futures for both humans and non-humans across the globe.

Against this backdrop, how can we rethink science and technology museums as spaces of hope – institutions that connect communities, diverse knowledges, and future-oriented imaginaries?

The 53rd CIMUSET Conference, 28 September – 2 October 2026, brings together museum professionals, researchers, educators, designers, policy-makers, and partners to collectively explore how science and technology museums can respond to these challenges. The conference invites contributions that reflect the complexity of our current moment and the diverse roles museums can play within it.

Key themes and questions explored during the conference include: 

  • bold and experimental approaches to storytelling around science and technology
  • collections as engines for curiosity, research, and societal reflection on contemporary challenges
  • rethinking visitor experiences as participatory processes, shifting from passive consumption to co-creation and critical reflection
  • working with Indigenous and First Nations voices and knowledge systems
  • non-formal learning that sparks dialogue, imagination, and action
  • sustainable, future-oriented practices that transform institutional cultures
  • outreach initiatives, pop-ups, mobile exhibitions, and playful public interventions
  • collaboration with local neighbourhoods, schools, grassroots organisations, and industries
  • activating parks, streets, and unexpected spaces as sites for science engagement
  • science and technology museums as civic, democratic, or activist platforms
  • global knowledge exchange and cross-regional partnerships

The CIMUSET Conference is for those who want to experiment, rethink, and expand what science and technology museums can be: civic spaces, learning environments, cultural actors, scientific storytellers, co-creators of new visions, and platforms for democratic dialogue.

Expect inspiring talks, engaging discussions, hands-on workshops, new collaborations, and a truly global conversation about the future of our field.

Why Participate?  

  • Because this is a moment of transformation.
  • Because science and technology museums are becoming more porous, collaborative, and socially engaged.
  • Because science and technology shape every aspect of contemporary life, and science and technology museums can help people navigate it with confidence, creativity, and care.
  • Because you get to connect with colleagues from all over the world.

And because the most compelling ideas in our field emerge when different worlds and perspectives meet.

Key dates

  • 13 March 2026: Deadline for call for papers
  • 13 March 2026: Deadline for applicants for travel grants
  • 1 April 2026: Results of the call for papers and travel grants announced
  • 1 May 2026: Announcement of the program and registration opens
  • 28 September – 2 October: Conference and excursions

Travel grants

CIMUSET is committed to supporting the participation of members from around the world and is pleased to announce the availability of travel grants.

Click here to download the form to be filled in to apply for the travel grant.

The deadline for submitting applications is 13 March 2026.

Q&A

Question 1. Is there a separate submission form?

No. Please adhere to the 250-300 word limit.

However, when writing, selecting your preferred Format and Panel topic would greatly assist the evaluation process. This is also not mandatory.

1) Formats: Individual presentations, Panels, Workshops

2) Panels: 1 (The World Inside), 2 (The World Outside), 3 (Decolonisation and Recognition)

Question 2. What must be strictly adhered to?

The deadline! Applications must be submitted by 13 March 2006 at 12:00 AM, CET. Submissions after this deadline will not be considered.

Question 3. What is the submission language?

While the conference will be conducted in English and Spanish, CFP submissions must be in English only.

Question 4. Points to note

Grant applications are separate. Should you wish to apply for a grant, please submit a separate application using the appropriate form by the same deadline.