Meeting with science communication researcher Niels G. Mede explored scientists’ role in addressing controversial topics
Ӱ Ülikoolis toimus arutelu teaduskommunikatsiooni uurija dr Niels G. Mede (Wageningeni Ülikool, Holland) osalusel.
A discussion with Dr Niels G. Mede, a science communication researcher from Wageningen University (the Netherlands), took place at Tallinn University.
Mede studies the relationship between the public and the scientific community, focusing on how scientists can communicate effectively and credibly with society.
The conversation examined the role of scientists in knowledge transfer and public engagement. Participants discussed what kinds of activities should be considered knowledge transfer – whether only traditional media communication or also collaboration with policymakers and stakeholder groups. Mede was particularly interested in how communication specialists at Tallinn University support researchers when their media appearances provoke negative feedback. It was generally agreed that speaking about controversial topics inevitably brings differing opinions.
Another key theme was scientist activism – whether it is welcome and in what situations researchers might express their opinions differently. According to Mede, scientists should use their expertise to engage with key decision-makers, drawing on evidence and research. In doing so, their knowledge carries more weight and highlights their greatest strength – being science-based.
This year’s Science Communication Conference, titled “The Role of Science Communication in Society,” will take place on 12 November in Tallinn. The conference focuses on the credibility of science and the role of science communication in shaping societal processes.
The keynote speaker, Niels G. Mede, is an Assistant Professor of Science Communication at Wageningen University, where he led one of the largest post-COVID studies on public trust in scientists (the TISP project). He will present global trends and discuss the role of science communication in these developments, as well as what science communicators should focus on in response. Mede will also share new results based on data from 68 countries, exploring how people encounter and relate to science. His research additionally covers issues such as societal polarization and populism.