Our Science Academy theme for 2026 has a strong science communication focus.

Photo By Vlad Tchompalov

We want you to think about how the 21^st century scientist can make their science heard and relevant not only to other scientists but to the wider public.

We’ll look at a few examples of scientists who have spoken out for science on the world stage and what motivated them to do so.

No matter how shy and reticent a scientist may be, sometimes there is an issue they feel compelled to speak out about given the implications of their research and its profound impact on our life.

Our first example of one such scientist is James Hansen. Born in 1941 he is currently Director of Climate Science, Awareness and Solutions Program at Columbia Climate school before which he was the Director of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies from 1981 to 2013.

“What do I know that would cause me, a reticent, Midwestern scientist,
 to get myself arrested in front of the White House protesting.
 And what would you do if you knew what I know?”

 The opening lines of his 2012 TED talk:  
Why I must speak out about climate change

Or

If you prefer listening to podcasts

James Hansen: What Makes a Scientist Take a Stand?  TED Radio Hour (8 mins)

[The Title Quote ‘Science that is not heard is not science at all’ comes from Prof Shaun Hendy’s book  ‘Silencing Science’  Pub by Bridget Williams Books 2016]