On 14 December 2025, the Museo delle Scienze in Trento (MUSE) will host the Citizen Science Fair, in collaboration with TETTRIs and the Italian Citizen Science Association — a dynamic one-day event dedicated to showcasing citizen science projects, fostering dialogue between researchers, policy makers and the public, and sparking new collaborations across disciplines.
In addition, CETAF (Consortium of European Taxonomic Facilities) will actively participate in the fair, highlighting the essential role of taxonomy within citizen science initiatives and strengthening ties with the broader community.
Citizen Science Fair: building bridges between research and society
As a key moment in the European citizen science calendar, this fair provides a unique platform where projects can:
- Firstly, host information stands to present their work and results to the public;
- Secondly, offer live demonstrations to illustrate methods, tools, and field practices;
- Ultimately, network with fellow initiatives, researchers, and policy makers to explore potential collaborations.
Moreover, by bringing together professionals, decision-makers, and citizens, the event creates fertile ground for emerging projects to gain visibility and for established initiatives to form strategic alliances.
Why CETAF is participating in the Citizen Science Fair
For CETAF, the Citizen Science Fair represents a double opportunity:
- Raising Awareness of Taxonomy
Taxonomy — the science of identifying, describing, and classifying organisms — is often perceived as highly specialised, yet it underpins biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, and ecological crisis response. CETAF aims to make taxonomy more accessible to the public through concrete examples, hands-on activities, and engaging outreach materials. - Connecting with Citizen Science Initiatives
Many citizen science projects rely on taxonomic knowledge, from wildlife observations and biodiversity inventories to ecosystem monitoring. CETAF’s presence at the fair will allow the organisation to identify synergies, exchange tools, offer technical expertise, and build new partnerships with citizen-led projects.
Through this participation, CETAF reinforces its core mission: promoting the value of collections, advancing taxonomic expertise, and integrating taxonomy into initiatives with strong societal impact.
An open invitation to participate
In this context, CETAF warmly invites scientists, associations, and citizens passionate about nature to visit its stand during the fair, exchange ideas, and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Furthermore, Citizen Science Fair initiatives looking to showcase their work and connect with European taxonomic institutions will find this event an ideal platform for visibility and networking.
