From 3 to 8 March 2026, Nijmegen will again be the scene of a festival where science and film reinforce each other in a special way: the InScience Film Festival. In recent years, the festival has built up a solid international reputation and attracts visitors from all disciplines, from researchers and film professionals to students, entrepreneurs and curious enthusiasts.
The theme for 2026 is love. This broad topic is highlighted in the programme from numerous angles: biological, social, psychological and even technological. Films and talks take the audience along the way love occurs in nature, how people shape relationships and how new technologies such as robots and AI influence our understanding of connection.
This broad and innovative outlook perfectly matches the ambitions of Lifeport, the region where knowledge, innovation and social progress go hand in hand. InScience shows how science, creativity and society can reinforce each other.
A unique crossover between science and film
InScience is all about films that put science centre stage. The selection consists of international productions that make complex subjects clear and understandable. Not only the content, but also the visual approach ensures that visitors can delve into topics that are otherwise difficult to fathom.
However, the festival does not stop at film screenings. A rich programme of lectures, discussions, interviews, exhibitions and interactive technology is organised around the films. Makers and experts take visitors behind the scenes of research and innovation, with topics ranging from ocean floor research to medical care, and from data visualisation to astronomy.
Interdisciplinary meetings
An important part of InScience is bringing together various disciplines. Scientists, artists, policymakers, students and professionals meet each other during panel discussions, in-depth follow-up talks and programmes such as Stand Up Science, where visitors are introduced to a variety of research fields in a short time.
In addition, InVision, the special industry programme, offers space for researching and creative makers to explore new ideas together. The collaborations that arise here often form the basis for innovative projects, concepts or forms of storytelling. This makes InVision an important part of the ecosystem that makes InScience so unique.
Lifeport
Lifeport Regio Arnhem Nijmegen is known for innovation in energy, health and technology. InScience fits in so well here because it links current scientific issues to societal challenges, innovations and creative imagination.
The festival acts as a meeting place where regional entrepreneurs, researchers and students can exchange their insights and ambitions. By making science accessible and showing what impact research can have, InScience strengthens the innovative power of the region.
Interdisciplinary cooperation
Within Lifeport, cooperation between knowledge institutions, companies and governments is central. InScience reflects this approach by bringing together professionals from diverse fields. Filmmakers, researchers, technological pioneers, writers and communication specialists work together, share ideas and inspire each other. The festival shows that innovation arises at the boundaries between disciplines.
Education
InScience contributes to the development of young talent. Programmes such as Meet the Researcher, educational activities for schools and the Student Jury make the festival accessible to young people who want to broaden their knowledge.
This is valuable for the region: it strengthens the connection between students and Lifeport's regional innovation ecosystem and invites them to build their future here.
Interesting films and opportunities for you as an entrepreneur
For entrepreneurs, InScience offers interesting content and business opportunities. The films and talks touch on topics relevant to almost all innovative sectors: from artificial intelligence, health and sustainability to behavioural science and technological innovation.
In addition, you will meet professionals who normally do not easily get together. The mix of researchers, filmmakers, policymakers, students and creatives makes the festival ideal for inspiration, networking and discovering new collaboration opportunities. Moreover, during the InVision programme on 6 March, opportunities arise to translate ideas into concepts or projects in concrete terms.
Why students should not miss InScience
For students, InScience is an ideal way to experience science in an accessible, surprising and inspiring form. The films offer a visual way to gain knowledge, while the talks and in-depth sessions provide space for reflection and questions.
In addition, students can participate in master classes, networking events and jury programmes. This makes InScience a place where you can both learn and further develop yourself. The threshold is low thanks to affordable tickets, stripping cards and activities that are free of charge, including the opening film and Stand Up Science.
Meeting place
InScience is more than a film festival: it is a place where curiosity, creativity and science come together. The unique combination of film, art, social themes and interdisciplinary cooperation makes it an important event within Lifeport and a source of inspiration for everyone who wants to look ahead.
Whether you are an entrepreneur looking for new ideas, a student wanting to explore your future, or just someone interested in the world around us, this festival offers a unique experience, with special films and encounters that stick.
Find out more
You can find the full programme and all the latest information at inscience.nl.
