In this new edition, we explore the essentials of taking science communication from idea to reality. With the theme SciComm Lift-Off, we dive into the practicalities of launching and sustaining effective scicomm initiatives, with insights from research and inspiring case studies.
We know that to thrive, science communication needs resources: financial support, strategic partners, and, crucially, an engaged audience. In this edition, we showcase examples that provide guidance and inspiration on tackling challenges like securing funding, finding collaborators with the right expertise, building constructive working relationships, and cultivating a loyal audience.
We hear from European Space Agency scientist Angelique Van Ombergen about how she ended up moonlighting as a successful children’s book author. Abigail Swillens shares her journey from researcher to scicomm solopreneur, and Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt talks about what it’s like having a celebrity test subject (and plenty of cameras) in her lab.
We zoom in on why and how one of the major funding bodies in Belgium, the Flanders Research Organization (FWO), supports outreach and science communication, and dive into Sofie Verkest’s research revealing pitfalls and opportunities when different stakeholders share the scicomm arena.
Finally, don’t miss our interview with Dieter Honoré, author of Brine—a book that defies categorization, blending elements of science and storytelling. Neither pure fiction nor straightforward non-fiction, it’s a tale of research, social relevance, engagement, love, and sacrifice, all revolving around the tiny yet fascinating brine shrimp.
We hope this edition will provide a springboard for science communicators ready to connect, ignite, and engage.
Three, two, one…
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