“What kind of research do you usually write about?”
At parties, I find that my job requires some explanation. “I didn’t know science communication was a profession,” is a comment I often hear. I also notice that people immediately think of technical research projects with a high degree of innovation.
In fact, I usually focus on the social sciences. It’s not exactly “rocket science,” but it often involves research that’s closely tied to real-world practice and sheds new light on social issues. In this way, the social sciences can form the foundation for sound policy or new legislation.
In this overview, I’ll share a few examples of scientists I’ve spoken with who have recently been featured in national media:
The (unintended) effect of nutrition campaigns
People with lower levels of education are more likely to eat unhealthily, yet campaigns by the Netherlands Nutrition Center are least effective among this very group, as shown by research conducted by Tim van Meurs (read my interview on eur.nl). In his dissertation, he makes recommendations for better aligning these types of campaigns with people’s lived experiences.
Featured by: Radio 1, NRC, Volkskrant and AD
Reducing Nitrogen Emissions Through Low-Tech Innovations
The nitrogen issue is, par excellence, a political topic. It’s about what kind of country we want to be and what kind of food production fits that vision. Jeroen Pijlman (see interview at louisbolk.nl) conducted research into innovations to reduce nitrogen emissions on dairy farms. Still, the technical side is only part of the story. For example, he argues that farmers need more clarity—such as a standard per hectare—in order to take action.
Covered by: Trouw and numerous regional media outlets.
Just how inclusive are festivals, really?
What are festival organizers doing to ensure their events are inclusive for everyone? Britt Swartjes (see eur.nl) explored this question in her dissertation. The interviews she conducted reveal that many organizers are very consciously working toward this goal. It is striking that a strong link is drawn between music genres and audience groups. At the same time, the research shows that the organizations themselves are very insular and often still lack diversity.
Why Living at Home Longer Is Ultimately a Costly Choice
An aging population and skyrocketing healthcare costs. This is one of the most important issues of the coming decades. That’s why it sounds appealing: letting people live at home longer to reduce the strain on the healthcare system and cut costs. Yet the effect is counterproductive, as research by Marlies Bär shows (read the press release on eur.nl). People who live at home longer fall more often and are hospitalized more frequently.
Covered by: Trouw, Volkskrant, Medisch Contact and Zorgvisie
How the Law Provides Grounds for Prosecution in Cases of Starvation
Can people be held liable if civilians are (deliberately) starved during an armed conflict? Jolanda Andela (Erasmus School of Law) explored this question in her dissertation. Unfortunately, this research is all too relevant given the situation in Gaza. NRC therefore featured the study on its front page.
Covered by: NRC
