Science communication has entered the public debate at different levels: it supports the societal dimension of science, levers significant funding opportunities for research, and contributes to build a successful dialogue with decision makers.
VIU has always promoted dialogue among academia, policy makers, business sectors and citizens through its capacity building programs. This allowed us to experience the challenge of researchers called to communicate to diverse audiences and the role of training to make that communication more effective.
Since 2018, we have dedicated increasing attention to the public communication of science and research; applying VIU consolidated interdisciplinary methodology to training, research, dissemination and knowledge-exchange programs as well as challenges and tools for quality science communication.
Environment, Sustainability, Artificial Intelligence are among the topics addressed at VIU that we have looked at through the lens of science communication: as with many societal challenges, these issues need to be communicated effectively in order to raise awareness, build trust and support a positive impact on citizens, policy makers, business community and researchers themselves.
We are committed to creating a science communication community with all VIU members, and beyond, who carry out studies on science communication as a formal or informal learning opportunity; who wish to support their researchers at all level with the necessary skills to effectively communicate science; and who want to offer opportunities for training and exchange to their communication and research staff to ultimately enhance research performing organizations’ ability to best connect with society, business and national and international governance.
In the March edition of the What’s New at VIU newsletter we are sharing some of our ongoing and past initiatives, to open up the floor for new discussions and opportunities.
