On 15–16 June, eight researchers from ACE²-EU alliance universities – Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), the Medical University of Gdańsk, and Goce Delčev University (UGD) – and CUAS' associated partner Infineon gathered in Villach for a two-day challenge-based training programme in science communication. The event culminated in a public Science Slam, where participants presented their research in a 6-minute pitch to a live audience and competed for the best presentation.
The audience award went to Kristijan Pancev from UGD, who captivated listeners with an engaging presentation on human rights in global supply chains. Using the everyday example of a banana, he illustrated the importance of corporate due diligence in helping protect the fundamental rights of producers whose products are consumed thousands of kilometres away. His presentation stood out for its clarity, creativity, and memorable key message.
The Research Communication: Training & Slam format is an innovative intensive programme designed to help researchers strengthen their communication skills. Developed and implemented by CUAS and supported by external partners, the training combines expert guidance, peer feedback, and collaborative learning in an iterative process that encourages participants to refine and improve their project presentations. The public Science Slam challenges researchers to step outside their comfort zones, conveying the content and relevance of their research to a non-expert audience while providing a powerful incentive for excellence in science communication.
This year marked the third edition of the event, bringing together researchers from across the ACE²-EU alliance and Carinthian research-driven companies and organisations. In addition to support from Infineon, Carinthia Government, and Science Slam Austria, the private zoo and primatology research station Abenteuer Affenberg also joined the organising committee, offering participants a deep dive into applied science communication and an exciting experience with the primates—among others, participants had to present their pitches in the enclosure, resisting the distraction of the macaque monkeys.
We look forward to welcoming a new group of researchers for next year’s edition.
