Brussels, March 14, 2025 – In the grand halls of the University Foundation, where the echoes of intellectual discourse have long shaped Europe’s academic landscape, the Mediterranean Science Team Gala 2025 brought together leading scientists, policymakers, and visionaries from across the Mediterranean. Against the historic backdrop of Brussels—often called the crossroads of Europe—the event unfolded as a powerful testament to the transformative role of science and the unwavering pursuit of gender equality.
Organized by MEDNIGHT & EWORA, this gathering served not only as a recognition of scientific excellence but as a call to action. It was a moment when borders blurred, cultures intertwined, and the Mediterranean emerged as a beacon of knowledge and inclusion. The Gala was a celebration of achievements, but also a reminder that true progress in science is only possible when all voices are heard, valued, and empowered.
The evening was expertly guided by Theo Anagnostopoulos, whose engaging presence ensured a seamless and dynamic flow throughout the event. His ability to connect with the audience turned the Gala into more than a series of speeches—it became a dialogue, a shared experience of inspiration and commitment.
Opening Reflections: A Vision for Gender Equality in Science
The Gala opened with a Welcome Address from Gülsün Sağlamer, the Founding Honorary President of the European Women Rectors Association (EWORA), followed by Marina Trimarchi, MEDNIGHT Coordinator from UNIME, who presented insights into the mission and vision of MEDNIGHT.
The keynote speeches featured distinguished figures, including Lina Galvez Muñoz, Member of the European Parliament and Vice-Chair of the Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA), who set an inspiring tone with her compelling address. Ekaterina Zaharieva, the European Commission’s Commissioner for Startups, Research, and Innovation, provided an insightful keynote on the EU’s ongoing commitment to innovation and gender equality in research.
Their words resonated as both a source of inspiration and a call to action—urging the Mediterranean region to take the lead in shaping a research landscape that is truly inclusive and equitable.
Recognizing Universities Leading the Way
From 3:00 PM to 3:20 PM, the Gala’s spotlight turned to those institutions leading the charge in promoting gender equality in Mediterranean universities. Hülya Çağlayan, Secretary General of EWORA, introduced the Recognition Ceremony for the Universities, where three distinguished universities were honored for their innovative efforts in fostering inclusivity:
Three universities were celebrated for their outstanding efforts:
- Universitat Jaume I (Spain) – Award presented by Silvia Rueda Pascual, Director of the Women and Science Unit, Spanish Government
- Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro (Italy) – Award presented by Gülsün Sağlamer, Founding Honorary President, EWORA
- Universidade de Coimbra (Portugal) – Award presented by Isabel Capeloa Gil, Rector, Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP), Portugal
The awards were more than symbols of achievement; they reaffirmed that universities are not just centers of learning but catalysts for societal transformation. Honored for their groundbreaking initiatives in advancing gender equality, these institutions have fostered inclusive environments that empower students and researchers across diverse disciplines.
Mediterranean Science Team: Honoring 12 Scientists Who Are Shaping the Future
As the ceremony progressed, the spotlight shone on 12 remarkable scientists, each embodying the spirit of Mediterranean excellence. Their research spans diverse fields—from medicine and environmental science to engineering and neuroscience—yet they are all united by a shared dedication to discovery and inclusivity.
The MEDNIGHT Awards 2025 honored these exceptional scientists for their contributions to advancing knowledge and addressing pressing global challenges. These 12 scientists and their respective areas of expertise are as follows:
🔹 Urška Lampe (Slovenia) – History & Heritage
🔹 Sherine Ahmed El Baradei (Egypt) – Space, Water & Environment
🔹 Lubna Dada (Lebanon) – Climate & Pollution
🔹 Mónica Bettencourt-Dias (Portugal) – Health & Cell Biology
🔹 Paola Bonfante (Italy) – Biodiversity & Ecosystems
🔹 Belma Kalamujić Stroil (Bosnia & Herzegovina) – Environment & Plant Genetics
🔹 Elpiniki Ninou (Greece) – Neuroscience & Brain Health
🔹 Meryem Lemrani (Morocco) – Parasitology & Global Health
🔹 Jelena Vladić (Serbia) – Sustainable Chemistry & Green Solvents
🔹 Beraat Özçelik (Türkiye) – Food Science & Nutrition
🔹 Pierre Micheletti (France) – Global Health & Humanitarian Science
🔹 Rocío Millán Gómez (Spain) – Soil Health & Pollution
These distinguished researchers were recognized not only for their scientific breakthroughs but also for their unwavering commitment to shaping a more sustainable, equitable, and healthier world. Their work extends beyond laboratories and academic institutions, directly impacting society by addressing critical global challenges—from climate change and biodiversity loss to public health and humanitarian crises. By pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation, they exemplify the vital role of science in building a better future for all.
Closing Reflections and a Shared Commitment
As the event neared its conclusion, the stage welcomed Senem Sanal-Erginel, Policy Officer at the European Commission, alongside Virginia Albarracin, Board Member of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MCAA). Their reflections captured the essence of the evening—not just a celebration, but a collective pledge to sustain momentum in the fight for gender equality in science.
Their words resonated deeply, reinforcing the notion that gender parity is not a distant goal, but an urgent necessity. It is not merely about creating opportunities for women in science—it is about creating a scientific world that is richer, more innovative, and more just for everyone.
The event concluded with a Cocktail Reception, where conversations continued to flow, collaborations were born, and a shared sense of purpose filled the room. Researchers, policymakers, and academics left not only with awards and recognition but with a renewed commitment to fostering inclusivity in their institutions and fields.
A Legacy for the Future
As the Mediterranean Science Team Gala 2025 drew to a close, it left behind more than accolades and speeches. It left behind a movement—one that will continue to shape the future of science, ensuring that excellence is not measured merely by discoveries made, but by the opportunities created for those who will make them.
Through events like these, MEDNIGHT is not just celebrating progress; it is shaping it. And in the heart of Europe, the Mediterranean’s scientific voice grows stronger—one that speaks of knowledge, innovation, and above all, equality.
