Oeiras Experimenta
A living citizen science laboratory open to the community.
Oeiras Experimenta is a living citizen science laboratory that integrates scientific research, community participation, and public policy to address the challenge of sustainable agriculture and food production in the context of climate change.Based at the historic Quinta de Cima do Marquês de Pombal, the project brings together researchers, citizens, and policymakers to study crops that are resilient to climate change, particularly drought. With an open and collaborative approach, it transforms science into everyday practice, bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and local needs. More than just a project, it is a community where science is co-created, promoting inclusion, equity, the appreciation of local knowledge, and active citizenship, establishing itself as a laboratory of the future.
Oeiras Experimenta in numbers
15
researchers
10
interns
20
regular citizen scientists
35
partnerships for social inclusion
650
citizen scientists in participatory visits
>2000
participants in eventsScientific Goals
Oeiras Experimenta studies the resilience, adaptation, and yield of agricultural crops in the face of climate change, contributing to more sustainable and resilient food production systems.
Its goals are:
- To investigate alternative cereals and legumes requiring less water;
- To identify more resilient crop varieties;
- To promote sustainable food systems;
- To co-create inclusive and equitable resources (music, urban art, infographics, illustrations, and recipes);
- To involve citizens in all stages of the scientific process.
Scientific Results and Impact
- Identification of crops and varieties with greater drought tolerance, as well as the associated stress response mechanisms, which may play a crucial role in advancing sustainable food systems.
- PhD project to be carried out as part of the Oeiras Experimenta initiative, with active citizen participation
Prizes and Funding
- Honorable Mention – European Union Citizen Science Award (2025)
- ADN Award (2025)
- Funding from the IMPETUS Program | European Commission (“Starting” and “Sustaining” grants)
- Exploratory research project from the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)
- International Mariano Gago Ecsite Award 2026 – Excellence in Public Engagement with Science.
Citizen Scientists
Citizen science is a central pillar of Oeiras Experimenta. Citizen scientists actively participate in:
- Planting, field maintenance, and harvesting;
- Collecting data and experimental observations;
- Comparing environmental conditions;
- Co-creating educational materials, sustainable recipes, cultural content, and inclusive and equitable resources;
- National and international events as project ambassadors (European Researchers’ Night, Open Houses, conferences).
Elisabete Brigadeiro, Chief of Staff for Science and Innovation, Municipality of Oeiras
Oeiras Experimenta is more than just a project: it is a public policy initiative in action. Through science, scientists, policymakers, and citizens, we are building not just a laboratory, but a true laboratory of the future.