Final conference of the COST Cross-Cutting Activity on Science Communication

The Cross-Cutting Activity (CCA) is a tool to better connect policy makers and R&I players to share best practices. In 2019, COST introduced the pilot CCA on Science Communication. This CCA uses COST networking instruments to achieve specific objectives:

• Create learning tools to enhance the value and impact of public engagement with science;
• Explore ways of achieving high-quality, evidence-based, interdisciplinary science communication, targeting diverse audiences;
• Address the gap between the scientific community, policy makers, journalists and citizens/stakeholders;
• Develop high-quality training in science communication.

At this Final Conference on 23 June, we will take stock of current trends and best practices on how to communicate science to policymakers and citizens, and how to include science communication activities within collaborative, interdisciplinary research programmes. The conference will present the results of the CCA on Science Communication and explore practical solutions for integrating science communication more broadly within the European eco-system of science and innovation.

The conference will address the following key points:

• What have we learned about the importance of science communication during the pandemic?
• What should the European institutions and Member States do to amplify the impact of science communication in a post-pandemic world?
• And what are best practices for including science communication activities within interdisciplinary funding programmes?

This COST CCA event welcomes participants who work across funding agencies, universities, the business sector and civil society to promote the impact of science communication. Conference panels and keynote presentations will cover topics ranging from funding, evaluation and assessment of science communication activities to protecting scientists who act as knowledge brokers in the public domain.

On 24 June following the conference, a half-day Masterclass on Science Communication will focus on practical tools and working models for science communication and knowledge mobilisation. The workshop is a training session for scholars and practitioners, with a particular focus on young researchers.

More detailed information can be found in the Conference Note.

The final programme can be found here.

Please register for the Conference and/or Masterclass by sending an e-mail to [email protected].

Note for registered participants: list of hotel options near the venue.