Two young researchers, Lea Stark from Karolinska Institutet and Sara Löwgren from Linköping University are capturing the public’s attention. After winning the digital sub-competition Forskar Grand Prix Digital by presenting their research through compelling videos, both stand out for their ability to break down complex scientific concepts into clear and accessible stories to a wider audience.
For Lea Stark, the Forskar Grand Prix provided a unique opportunity to push herself linguistically and intellectually. “I stumbled upon the competition in Karolinska’s newsletter,” she recalls. Presenting her research in Swedish, her second language, she realized, would be the perfect way to step outside her comfort zone.
“Explaining my research to a general audience seemed like a skill I would like to work on,” Sara Löwgren says, emphasizing how important it is to communicate science openly and honestly.
Simplifying Science: The Art of Balance
Communicating complex science is an art form that both finalists have had to refine. For Sara Löwgren, the process was more about revealing the journey than the final results, particularly as her study is still in its exploratory phase. She says, “Science communication is also about explaining the process, and that realization made a big difference.”
Lea Stark’s challenge was equally formidable as a non-native Swedish speaker. “I often found myself swinging between two extremes,” she explains, “either oversimplifying concepts or diving into too much detail.” Finding the right balance or ”lagom,” as the Swedes call it, proved to be challenging.
When asked for advice on enhancing science communication, the finalists offered valuable insights. Sara emphasized transparency, especially in today’s “post-truth” era, advocating openness about uncertainties to build public trust. Lea Stark’s advice: “Step out of your comfort zone!” She believes growth comes from embracing discomfort and taking risks.
The Finale Awaits
As Lea Stark and Sara Löwgren prepare to step onto the stage, they carry with them a shared mission: to make science accessible, engaging, and honest. Both finalists are excited to engage with fellow competitors. Sara values the diverse research topics in the Forskar Grand Prix. Lea shares this enthusiasm, eager to hear others’ presentations and celebrate their work in a supportive setting.
Following the Forskar Grand Prix, the Filadelfia Convention Center will also host the annual Science Communication Forum (Forum för forskningskommunikation), bringing together experts to discuss pressing issues in research communication. The theme for this year’s forum, “What is the democratic mission of research communication?” will invite attendees to explore the role of science in fostering informed, engaged communities.
Laurène Adam,
intern at Vetenskap & Allmänhet (Public and Science Sweden) and PhD student at KI, where she contributes to bridging science and society through her research and public engagement efforts.
