On 30 April 2026, we hosted the SIM2 Speed Dating Networking Event at Arenberg Accelerator. Here is a short account of how it was! The idea of Speed Dating event was inspired by a conversation with a researcher who shared that their project concept was conceived during last year’s SIM2 Researchers Meeting 2025, also known as the “pizza event.” That was a good reminder that it is the informal moments, such as eating pizza together, that can lead to a formal collaboration. So we decided to drop the presentations and just let people talk to each other in person, like it is 1990’s.
The format was straightforward. We had 10 tables, each with a host researcher, assigned somewhat at random. Participants rotated every five minutes, meeting new colleagues at each table. In less than an hour, everyone had the chance to connect with at least 10 people across different research groups of SIM2. Among others, we had participants from geology, chemistry, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The conversations were so lively that in many cases it was difficult to stop people talking when the bell rang. That is always a good sign.
The atmosphere was relaxed and open and became even more so after the drinks were served. And yes, the pizza did not disappoint. It once again proved its role as a quiet but powerful networking tool.
