BU Research Blog

Today the Guardian have uploaded a video of  Prof Alice Roberts (who is now University of Birmingham’s first Professor of Public Engagement in Science), talking about the need for scientists to ensure their research findings reach a far wider audience. You can find the video here. I think this provides strong commentary on the need for all researchers, regardless of their discipline, to ensure their research findings reach a far wider audience.

The video also highlights the concern that many researchers have, in that by getting involved with public engagement this is likely to have a negative impact on their careers. I know this is something that I personally have struggled with during my research career, but increasingly the opposite is the case with changing expectations of what should be the outcome of research. With major initiatives such as the RCUK’s Catalysts, public engagement as part of research activity is likely to be here to stay. BU is recognising this by providing addition support for public engagement activities via the Research Development Unit.

If you are interested in thinking about how your research can reach a wider audience, please do contact me on redwards@bournemouth.ac.uk or 01202 961206.