An inspiring 2-day Hackathon in Chemical Ecology took place in Athens, Greece, on May 11–12, 2026, organized within the framework of the E-NICHE COST Action CA22102. The event brought together early-career innovators, researchers, and mentors to develop innovative ideas, methodologies, and prototypes addressing current challenges in chemical ecology.
The Hackathon combined innovation training, design thinking methodologies, AI-supported prototyping exercises, and hands-on teamwork, focusing on translating chemical ecology research into sustainable and impactful solutions. Participants worked closely with experienced innovation experts, mentors, and industry partners throughout the two-day event.
Participants could choose from five thematic tracks:
- Chemical biodiversity
- Semiochemicals for sustainable agriculture
- Cross-kingdom communication modelling
- Predictive ecology through molecules
- Neuro-chemo link & language perception
Over two days of ideation, mentoring, and pitching sessions, participants gained practical experience in:
- Design thinking and innovation development
- AI-supported prototyping and solution design
- Team-based ideation and problem solving
- Pitch preparation and presentation skills
- Collaboration with industry experts and innovation mentors
A total of 19 innovators from 7 countries and 11 institutions participated in the Hackathon, supported by 5 mentors and evaluated by 5 industry partners and members of the evaluation committee. During the event, 7 innovative ideas were generated and pitched.
The Hackathon provided a unique opportunity to strengthen academia-industry collaboration, encourage interdisciplinary networking, and promote innovation in the field of chemical ecology. It also enabled participants to develop entrepreneurial and communication skills while exploring sustainable solutions to real-world challenges in chemical ecology.
The event was organized in collaboration with Mantis Beyond Innovation as Program and Innovation Enabler, and with the support of the Hellenic Entomological Society, Novagrica, Novacert Ltd, and ANDERMATT ANTHESIS P.C., and Agriodor, as a side activity of the 2nd International Conference on Green Innovation and Circular Economy (GR-I-CE) in Athens, Greece.
