A post by HZB summerstudent Christiaan I. Versteeg: Summer 2023 – Four lockdowns and five vaccinations later, both me and society are trying to forget the far-reaching consequences that the pandemic had on our lives and society. Even though the last lockdown in Europe ended only about a year ago, much has happened in that time. Now I am able to embark on a new journey at the terminus of my university studies: an academic summer school at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin. A move to Germany from my home country of the Netherlands that would have been impossible in 2020, very difficult in 2021, 2022 and now… suddenly a logical part of my academic path again.
After Covid
What COVID-19 has primarily shown, in my opinion, is the extent to which society relies on scientific research to solve its most pressing issues. I remember how, pre-pandemic, scientists did not take a major role in the public debate. The profession was sometimes seen as a bit dull – something people did in laboratories that hardly ever resulted in anything directly impacting our daily lives. This has changed radically in the past years. The rapid development of safe and effective vaccines against COVID-19 was strong evidence that scientists’ work can and does actively contribute to urgent problems in society.
Sudden spike of interest
What amazed me personally, though, is the sudden interest that everyday people showed in scientific topics. Never did I imagine that I would be discussing RNA, R-values, and spike proteins at family gatherings! Coincidentally, I had taken a biochemistry course at university shortly before the start of the pandemic, so I was faced with the challenge of explaining difficult concepts to family members. I was glad to be able to do this, though. The verifiable knowledge that I had learned helped comfort some family members, some of whom were concerned about their health, or about the new vaccines at the time. I also strongly suspect that these discussions contributed to my younger sister’s choice to study Biomedical Science, of which she has recently finished the first year with excellent results.
The events of the past two years have ignited a passion within me to be part of the solution to society’s problems. To contribute to research that could make a positive impact on people’s lives. Arriving at the Adelhelm group of Humboldt University, a joint group together with the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, I find myself surrounded by scientists from diverse academic backgrounds ranging from materials science to chemical engineering. Being trained in classical chemistry, I find these new perspectives exciting.
The need for accurate information
It becomes clear to me that scientific research is a collective effort that thrives on open dialogue and cooperation. I reflect on the transformative role of science in society. The pandemic has shown us that scientific advancements can dramatically alter the trajectory of our lives. It has also exposed the importance of having accurate information readily accessible to the public. Misinformation and conspiracy theories have spread almost as fast as the virus itself, particularly in my country, and has given rise to a new movement of political populist extremism. This underscores the need for scientists to communicate their findings effectively.
When the summer school comes to an end, I will return home to the Netherlands with a newfound sense of purpose. I am determined to become not just a scientist, but also a science communicator. I believe it essential to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and the general public, ensuring that critical information reaches people in a comprehensible and reliable matter. I am determined to practice what I preach and will work on making outreach and transparency an important part in my future career.
Long night of the Sciences in Berlin
My recent participation in the German Long Night of the Sciences (Lange Nacht der Wissenschaften) at Humboldt University was an example of effective science communication, especially in light of the transformative impact of the pandemic on global perspectives. During this event, which showcases the significance of scientific endeavors to the general public, various institutes open their doors across Germany. As part of the Adelhelm group, I explained the fundamental workings of battery cells, demonstrating examples of commercial batteries found to our visitors. Our efforts extended beyond presentations; we organized engaging lab tours and even provided free popcorn to create a welcoming atmosphere. Remarkably, we received people from very different age ranges. Children found joy in hands-on activities like the build-your-own battery station and relished the popcorn while older people came to me with a surprising amount of interest and in-depth questions.
Crisis as a turning point
What’s noteworthy is that this event happened against the backdrop of evolving societal attitudes shaped by the pandemic. The crisis has served as a turning point in recent history, igniting a collective realization of the value of science and education. This resurgence of curiosity is particularly inspiring, reflecting humanity’s resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Thankfully, funding for scientific pursuits in both my country and Germany has either grown or remained steady. I think this is essential for solving the many challenges we will face in the future. I suspect that the pandemic has redefined our world, prompting society to embrace science and progress. While uncertainties remain, I am optimistic that the lessons learned will propel us toward a more sustainable future.
The author: Christiaan I. Versteeg studies Nanomaterials Science at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. During the summer school he is working at the Adelhelm Group at the Humboldt-Universität Berlin in collaboration with the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin.