New trainee supports researchers in building stronger connections with society
Strengthening the connection between social science and society: that is the mission for the coming year of new LDE trainee Eva Slings. With a Master’s degree in Media and Journalism and experience at TU Delft and Airbus, she is the ideal person for the job. 'Together with researchers, I will experiment with new forms of public participation.'
The ambitions are high. From a science communication perspective, Eva supports researchers in their efforts to connect with society. She will not only work hands-on with several research projects but also share the lessons learned with the entire research community. The year will conclude with a faculty-wide advisory report on science communication, tailored to key developments such as co-creation, societal impact, and of course citizen science – elements that are increasingly central to funding proposals.
An unusual combination
'After completing my Master’s in Journalism, I ended up last year – via the traineeship – at the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft,' Eva explains. 'Honestly? I hadn’t seen that coming myself. On paper, it might seem like an unusual combination, but in practice, it was a real eye-opener. I found my way even in a highly technical environment. In fact, I could do exactly what I love: connecting people. I became the spider in the web, working between students, professors, TU staff, and Airbus professionals. Bridging science and industry. I am now bringing that experience with me to Leiden, where I will help researchers bring their work closer to society and experiment with new forms of communication and public participation.'
Faculty-wide themes
To make this happen, Eva is talking to researchers across the entire faculty, mapping out research projects through the lens of the new faculty themes. She will also support researchers at the Institute of Psychology who want to anchor their projects more firmly in society.
More than sharing results
Eva: 'I am looking forward to building bridges between the science communication challenges faced within the Institute of Psychology and the faculty at large. I am already involved in various research projects, ranging from distracted eating to female hormones. I am asking questions like: how can you keep participants creatively engaged throughout the entire research process? And how do you present results in a way that has real impact for the people it concerns? Science is about more than just sharing results – it is a story. A story with mistakes and doubts, with ‘aha’ moments and breakthroughs, and yes, with results too. I want to bring that entire story to life.'
Science and Society Expertise Centre
While researchers are already making progress in this shift, science communication in editorial offices is still largely traditional – focused mainly on sending out press releases about grants and research results. This remains important, as gaining media coverage can help researchers increase their visibility. However, the editorial team recognises the need to support researchers in their growing focus on society. The aim is therefore to align science communication activities with this shift – in line with the mission, vision, and strategic plan of the National Centre of Expertise for Science and Society.
A shift in mindset
Anne Holleman, editor at the Institute of Psychology: 'In any relationship, ‘better communication’ doesn’t just mean speaking louder or more often – it means opening yourself up to the other person, asking questions, and trying to understand their perspective. Why should it be any different when it comes to connecting scientists with society? But this shift in mindset about science communication also requires a new way of working.'
This does not mean that the traditional approach to science communication is being discarded. 'A news article about research findings in a newspaper or on the radio also informs people and can spark their interest in the topic. But if the aim is to create societal impact through research and make scientific practice more transparent to citizens, this approach alone is too limited. We need to actively involve people in the research process – for example, as experts by experience in the field of certain illnesses or mental health conditions – or collaborate with social organisations. This takes time, energy, and creativity, which is why we are so pleased that Eva will be joining us this year to strengthen our efforts.'