On 14–15 June 2026, the University of Warsaw hosted the 4th edition of the "Science for Society" Congress, held under the theme "Society for Science". The event brought together representatives of the scientific community and provided a platform for presenting the achievements of Polish universities and research institutes, as well as for discussing the role of science in the development of society, the economy and innovation.
The Institute of Plasma Physics and Laser Microfusion (IPPLM) participated in the Congress as one of the co-organisers. Dr hab. Monika Kubkowska, Director of IPPLM, served as a member of the Scientific Committee, while Dr hab. Agata Chomiczewska, Deputy Director for Scientific Affairs, contributed to the work of the Organising Committee.
One of the items on the programme was a presentation by Dr Jacek Kurzyna entitled "Electric Space Propulsion: Projects Carried Out at the Laboratory of Plasma Nudge for Satellites (PlaNS)". The talk focused on electric propulsion technologies developed at the Laboratory, as well as on research results concerning their efficiency and the physical processes responsible for thrust generation.
During the Congress, IPPLM also presented three posters:
- "Electric Space Propulsion: Projects Carried Out at the Laboratory of Plasma Nudge for Satellites (PlaNS)",
- "LIBS – Chemical Composition Diagnostics for Future Energy Technologies",
- "Contribution of IPPLM Scientists to Nuclear Fusion Research"
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On the second day of the Congress, Dr hab. Agata Chomiczewska took part in a panel discussion of directors of research institutes entitled "How, when and where should we promote scientific achievements and research outcomes in Poland?". The discussion addressed the importance of effective science communication and ways of presenting the outcomes of research work to a broad audience.
Visitors to the IPPLM stand had the opportunity to learn about the Institute’s main areas of scientific activity and find out more about nuclear fusion research and technologies being developed for future fusion energy applications. The exhibits presented at the stand included 3D models of the ITER reactor and a stellarator.
In recognition of its involvement in the organisation of the 4th "Science for Society" Congress and its contribution to the development and promotion of science, the Institute received the "Perspectives of Science" Award in the form of a commemorative statuette. The distinction was presented during the main ceremony of the Congress by Karolina Zioło-Pużuk, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. After the official part of the event, the Ministry representative and Prof. Henryk Skarżyński, Chairman of the Main Council of Research Institutes, visited the stands of the institutions participating in the Congress and presented their representatives with commemorative diplomas.
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Recordings from the Congress, including presentations, panel discussions and interviews with guests, are available on the organiser’s website: https://nauka-dla-spoleczenstwa.pl/
Photos: IPPLM
