Navigating EGU2025: A Week of Science, Diplomacy, and Dialogue in Vienna

Bridging Policy and Science: Disaster Preparedness in the EU

My EGU2025 adventure kicks off with a deep dive into disaster preparedness. Union Symposia (US5) – "Bridging Policy and Science for EU Disaster Preparedness" – promises a crucial dialogue between scientists and policymakers. With extreme weather increasingly impacting Europe, the EU is seeking science-backed solutions. This session offers insights into aligning research with EU needs, featuring representatives from the European Commission's DGs for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations and Joint Research Centre.

Teaching, Learning, and the Future of Geoscience Education

Next up is EOS2.1 – "Open Session on Teaching and Learning in Higher Education." I'm eager to explore innovative educational approaches, especially in light of emerging technologies like generative AI and chatbots. Fostering international discourse on effective teaching strategies is crucial for preparing the next generation of geoscientists.

Science Diplomacy: Navigating the Geopolitical Landscape

The afternoon brings a shift towards science diplomacy. Short Course SC1.5 – "Your guide to science diplomacy" – delves into the vital role of science in addressing global challenges and fostering international collaboration. With science increasingly intertwined with geopolitics, this course promises valuable insights into bridging divides and building bridges.

Maintaining a Cutting-Edge Literature Review

Staying current with the latest research can feel like a never-ending race. SC3.8 – "Maintaining your literature review: tools, tips, and discussions" – offers practical advice for navigating this challenge. I'm even hoping to share our weekly New Research articles! Keeping up with evolving research is essential for informed scientific discourse.

Geoscience Communication: Sharing Knowledge and Making an Impact

Day 2 begins with a focus on geoscience communication. Short course SC2.14 – "Contributing to best-practice in geoscience communication by publishing – A drop-in ‘clinic’" – aligns perfectly with a paper we drafted last year. I'm looking forward to discussing publication strategies with the Geoscience Communication editors.

Citizen Science: Co-creating Knowledge with Communities

Another appealing session is ITS3.2/EOS1.9 – "Citizen Science and Co-creating with Communities," focusing on participatory research methods. I’m intrigued by the potential of co-creation to address complex societal challenges like climate change, and the potential for community-designed solutions to foster long-term positive impacts.

The Politics of Climate Change: Communicating Morals and Science

Given recent challenges to climate research, SC1.4 – "Climate change, morals and how people understand the politics of climate change" – couldn't be more timely. Learning how to communicate effectively without resorting to manipulative tactics is critical, and this session promises valuable ethical guidance.

Bridging Geoscience and Legal Practice in Climate Litigation

The final session of Day 2 presents a choice: EOS4.2 – "Bridging the gap between geosciences and legal practice: informing laws and litigation" – a dynamic PICO session exploring the role of geoscience in climate litigation. This is a critical intersection of science and policy, and I'm eager to hear the diverse perspectives in the rapid-fire elevator pitches.

Science for Policy 101: Making Research Relevant

Alternatively, I might revisit SC1.6 – "Science for policy 101" – a consistently insightful short course on integrating scientific knowledge into policymaking. Understanding the basics of policy and effectively communicating research findings is essential for researchers seeking to influence policy decisions.

Transferable Skills: From Academia to the World

Day 3 starts with a career-focused session: SC2.5 – "Transferable skills: what are they and do I have them?" Identifying and highlighting transferable skills is essential for scientists transitioning to non-academic careers, and this interactive workshop will help me pinpoint my own strengths.

From Fundamental Research to Societal Impact

The Great Debate GDB5 – "How to translate fundamental research into societal and policy impact" – tackles a crucial issue. Bridging the gap between research and real-world impact is a persistent challenge, and I anticipate a lively discussion on the role of researchers, Scientific Advisory Boards, and research funding allocation.

Games for Geoscience: Learning Through Play

For a dose of creativity and innovation, I'll head to EOS1.3 – "Games for Geoscience." This session always showcases imaginative approaches to science communication, education, and public engagement. Games offer a unique way to inspire learning and connect people with complex topics.

Communicating Uncertainty: A Critical Challenge

Day 4 begins bright and early with EOS1.6 – "How to communicate uncertainty to non-expert audiences." Clearly communicating uncertainty in science is crucial, especially for complex topics like pandemics and climate change. This session explores innovative tools and solutions for navigating this challenge.

Science Communication: Practice, Research, and Reflection

My first presentation of EGU2025 takes place in EOS1.1 – "Science and Society: Science Communication Practice, Research, and Reflection." I'll be sharing my experience with collaborations between Skeptical Science and other organizations, and demonstrating several projects aimed at combatting climate misinformation.

The Role of LLMs in Geoscience: Friend or Foe?

In the afternoon, I'll join the fervent discussion at GDB3 – "The Role of Large Language Models (LLMs) in Transforming Geosciences: Friend, Foe, or Fad?” I’m eager to explore the potential, but also the potential dangers LLMs have of impacting the future of geosciences.

Science and Activism: A Delicate Balance

The final day brings GDB7 – "Science and Activism – Compatible or Antithetical?" This promises to be a thought-provoking debate on the role of scientists in advocating for policy change, and navigating the tricky questions of objectivity, integrity, and engagement.

Geoethics and Global Anthropogenic Change

My final presentation of the week occurs in EOS4.3 – "Geoethics and Global Anthropogenic Change: Geoscience for Policy, Action and Education in Addressing the Climate and Ecological Crises." I'll be sharing the challenges of making climate science more accessible through Skeptical Science's translation project.

Strengthening Policy Through Science: Insights from the Interface

And to wrap things up, EOS4.1 – "Strengthening Policy Through Science: Insights from the Interface" – examines successful strategies for engaging in the science-policy interface. This session will provide valuable take-aways regarding effective communication for broader societal impact.

A Week of Learning and Connection

EGU2025 promises a whirlwind of sessions, presentations, and discussions. Beyond the formal program, I'll be hosting Networking Pop-Up Events to share our resources and connect with fellow attendees. It's going to to be a busy week, but an incredibly rewarding one, and I'll do my best to chronicle the adventure as it unfolds!