Saturday, June  28, 2025

(Session 1) Invited Talk: Michelle Randall (IBS Center for Quantum Nanoscience (QNS). Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea)

Call to adventure: science communication for results

Michelle Randall

IBS Center for Quantum Nanoscience (QNS). Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea

In an time when trust in scientific institutions under attack, effective science communication is essential for sustainable public support which can ensure the survival of the global research ecosystem. This talk explores how the Center for Quantum Nanoscience (QNS) has developed a comprehensive public engagement strategy that goes beyond traditional outreach to create meaningful, long-term relationships with diverse communities.

Using the Hero's Journey narrative framework, we will explore QNS's approach to science communication through three major initiatives: art contests that engage professional artists in interpreting quantum concepts, a middle school nanoscience curriculum reaching 48,000+ Korean students, and strategic social media presence that is educating global audiences. These programs demonstrate how aligning with naturally existing communities, fitting into established communication channels, and offering genuine value can amplify scientific impact far beyond what traditional metrics might suggest.

Every researcher can find their path to public engagement that fosters trust when meaningful, interactive, and transparent. This talk will show how these concepts apply whether you're organizing a professional art contest or simply sharing your research story on social media.

Through personal stories, attendees will learn that effective science communication doesn't require massive resources—it requires strategic thinking, persistence. The goal is to help every researcher discover that public engagement isn't an additional burden, but a natural extension of the curiosity and creativity that drives great science.