On Saturday 28 June 2025, the European XFEL in Schenefeld, near Hamburg, welcomed the public for its annual Open Day.
For a full day, around 3000 visitors could step inside one of the world’s most advanced X-ray research facilities and meet the people who make cutting-edge experiments possible.

Photo: European XFEL
The programme was packed with hands-on activities for all ages, guided tours like the one of the MID experimental station in the underground experiment hall (picture), and inspiring talks from scientists on the future of research.
HALRIC pilot projects: collaboration in action
Among the initiatives presented was HALRIC. The consortium’s goal is to strengthen innovation in the life sciences by opening access to some of the world’s most advanced research facilities, including the European XFEL. Through its cross-border approach, HALRIC creates opportunities for scientists and industry partners to tackle complex challenges together, whether in health, pharmaceuticals, or biotechnology.
At the heart of HALRIC’s work are its pilot projects, focused collaborations that bring together partners from different sectors and countries. Each project runs for around six months and must involve at least one HALRIC research infrastructure, such as the European XFEL.
Learn more
🔗 HALRIC pilot projects
🔗 European XFEL Open day’s news
⬇️ HALRIC poster (in German)