Creativity and Communication in Research: The INGENIUM Senior Winter School at UNIOVI

From 17-21 February, the University of Oviedo will host the INGENIUM Senior Winter School, a week-long gathering designed to push the boundaries of how research is communicated and understood. Against the historic and vibrant backdrop of Oviedo, participants will delve into the intricate world of scientific dissemination, sharpening their ability to engage both academic and non-expert audiences with clarity and impact.

A Dynamic Programme at the Heart of Asturias

Set in the Milán Campus, house for the Faculty of Humanities of the University of Oviedo, the Senior Winter School will bring together Master’s and PhD students from across the 10 partner universities, alongside expert mentors.

The programme, structured around the themes of Learn, Share, and Connect, offers a comprehensive approach to scientific communication.

  • Learn: Participants will attend expert-led sessions on communicating science effectively, distinguishing between outreach and dissemination, and tackling misinformation in key areas such as health and climate change.
  • Share: Through interactive workshops and collaborative projects, attendees will explore innovative ways to present complex ideas to the public without compromising scientific rigour.
  • Connect: The week will not be all work and no play. Activities such as cultural visits, a traditional espicha dinner, and a scavenger hunt along the Primitive Route of the Santiago Way will immerse participants in the region’s rich heritage.

Exploring the Key Sessions

Keynote Presentation: Protecting Academic Freedom with Scholars at Risk

A central highlight of the Senior Winter School will be the keynote presentation delivered by a distinguished representative of the Scholars at Risk (SAR) network. This session will explore the critical role academic freedom plays in democratic societies and the increasing threats faced by researchers worldwide. Topics include:

  • The mission and core activities of SAR, including hosting at-risk scholars and advocating for academic freedom.
  • The impact of government interference in universities and censorship in both authoritarian and democratic states.
  • Empirical research insights from tools like the Academic Freedom Index (AFi).

The personal experiences of academics who have faced persecution for their work.

Workshop: Academic Freedom in Practice

Complementing the keynote, this workshop will allow participants to engage with real-world case studies and policy dilemmas surrounding academic freedom. Structured group activities will include:

  • Examining academic freedom challenges in specific countries and comparing global trends.
  • Debating the ethical implications of collaborating with institutions in authoritarian regimes.
  • Developing policy recommendations to protect researchers and uphold academic integrity.

This session will empower students to critically assess the intersection of politics and academia while fostering skills in policy analysis and advocacy.

Communicating Science Effectively

A crucial component of the Senior Winter School, this session will introduce participants to the fundamentals of scientific communication. Experts in the field will break down best practices for presenting complex research to varied audiences, from fellow academics to policymakers and the general public. The session will explore different modes of communication, including written formats such as research papers and op-eds, as well as public engagement through social media and multimedia platforms.

Scientific Dissemination and Outreach

In this interactive workshop, students will dive into the distinctions between dissemination and outreach. While dissemination focuses on effectively conveying research findings to peers, outreach is about making scientific knowledge accessible to wider audiences. Case studies from different fields will be examined, highlighting successful strategies that have maximised research impact on society.

Group Project: Tackling Fake News

One of the most pressing challenges in research communication today is combating misinformation. This hands-on project will see participants work in teams to create campaigns that address scientific misinformation, particularly in fields like climate change and public health. Teams will develop science-based communication tools, ensuring that their strategies align with best practices in effective science communication.

INGENIUM Talks: Showcasing Research in a TED-Style Format

The culmination of the week’s efforts, INGENIUM Talks will provide students with a platform to present their research in an engaging and digestible format. Inspired by TED Talks, this event challenges participants to deliver concise and compelling presentations that capture the essence of their work while maintaining accessibility for non-specialist audiences.

Parallel Governance Meetings and Strategic Discussions

Running alongside the Senior Winter School, the INGENIUM Alliance will convene key governance meetings, including the INGENIUM Alliance Council, where university rectors will discuss the future of the consortium. The agenda will cover strategic priorities for 2025, budget allocations, the joint education offer, and new initiatives such as the INGENIUM satellite project.

These discussions will shape the next steps for INGENIUM, ensuring that innovation in research and education extends beyond individual institutions to benefit the entire European academic landscape.

Beyond the Classroom: Cultural and Networking Opportunities

The Senior Winter School is not just about academic learning; it is also about experiencing the cultural richness of Asturias and fostering lasting connections. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the city of Oviedo, with guided visits to historical landmarks and local institutions. A highlight of the social programme is the traditional Asturian espicha dinner, where students and staff will gather in a cider house to enjoy regional specialities and strengthen the bonds formed throughout the week.

Another key event is the Scavenger Hunt: The Primitive Route of the Santiago Way, a team-building activity that takes participants through the medieval heart of Oviedo, following the earliest pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

The INGENIUM Senior Winter School promises an enriching blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and professional networking. By honing their communication skills and engaging in meaningful discussions, participants will leave Oviedo equipped to share their research with impact.