Building Trust in Science: Insights from the VERITY Co-Creation Workshop
Insights from the VERITY Workshop on Science Oversight and Protection
On 7 November 2024, VERITY hosted a workshop titled “Science Oversight and Protection”, bringing together experts in research ethics, compliance, auditing, and science funding. This co-creation session focused on addressing challenges, exploring solutions, and fostering trust in science through collaborative dialogue.
Workshop Overview
The session, facilitated by Lisa Häberlein, Mathieu Rochambeau (EUREC), and Evren Yalaz (TRI), provided an interactive platform for participants from a wide range of organisations, including universities, research institutions, ethics boards, and funding agencies. Notable attendees included representatives from institutions such as the University of Oslo, Helmholtz, and University College Dublin.
The purpose of the workshop was to identify the roles, challenges, and resource needs of stakeholders in the oversight and protection sectors, and to explore potential collaborations that could enhance trust in science.
Key Topics Discussed
- Fostering Trust in Science – Participants emphasised the need for enhanced public communication and education, particularly in emerging areas like AI and inclusivity. The complexity of scientific outputs often leads to misunderstanding and skepticism, underscoring the importance of transparency and clarity.
- Challenges Faced – A recurring theme was the struggle to engage the public effectively due to limited resources and the complexity of research findings. Many participants felt that existing structures do not adequately support their role in building trust.
- Resource Needs – While training opportunities are available, their quality and relevance vary significantly. Participants called for targeted, high-quality training programs and incentives to encourage broader participation and adherence to best practices.
- Collaboration and Structure – Participants highlighted the need for well-defined roles and structures within the scientific ecosystem. Simplified methods of interaction and communication could reduce pressure on researchers and improve outreach efforts to diverse public groups.
Workshop Outcomes
The workshop shed light on the need for a dual focus: strengthening internal structures and resources while enhancing external communication with the public.
Recommendations included developing tailored training programs, incentivising participation, and prioritising sector-wide strategies to foster trust.
This session was an important step toward actionable solutions that empower stakeholders in science oversight and protection to play a pivotal role in enhancing transparency and public trust.