#EUSEA26 Day 2 – A Whole New World?

The dawn broke on another day of inspiration at #EUSEA26, as we opened the second day with our next special guest: Laura Lindenfeld, Executive Director and Professor of Communication at the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University in the USA.

For Laura, strategy is (almost) everything, and the rest is empathy. She spoke about the importance of building connections among researchers and how improv and acting techniques can equip scientists with the tools they need to become better engagers. Central to her talk was a question that every science communicator should be asking: “What does my audience need?”

With just one set of parallel sessions to choose from today, you might think the dilemma of choice would be easier. Not quite! The options included:

• Horizon Talks exploring how to build connections with underrepresented communities, and how alternative media and creative outputs can foster lasting emotional bonds with audiences.
• A workshop on creating tools for better inclusion using 3D models.
• A game show on the Art and Illusion of Science Communication.

The afternoon centred on a panel discussion: Whose Science Is It Anyway? Democracy, Integrity, and the Fight for the Public Good.

The session examined how capitalism, lobbying, and short-term political interests can override evidence-based decision-making, and asked who truly prevails in those conflicts. It challenged assumptions around scientific neutrality and impartiality, and explored what genuine collective resilience looks like for those working to uphold scientific values under pressure.

The panel featured:

• Laura Lindenfeld, Executive Director of the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science
• Mirko Bischofberger, Founder of Science Studios and lecturer in Science Communication
• Maria Hagardt, Swedish Research Council
• Thomas Saunders, Head of Public Engagement at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

Moderated by Jörg Weiss, EUSEA Director.

After such a rich and thought-provoking discussion, #EUSEA26 drew to a close. We said a huge thank you to our wonderful hosts from the FNR and the University of Luxembourg, before turning our attention to what comes next. We are delighted to welcome the hosts of #EUSEA27, the University of Glasgow, who put together a short explainer video for anyone who has yet to visit this fantastic city.

We hope to see you all there!