Science Communication

Combining expertise, creating spaces for dialogue, and communicating research in a way that is accessible and trustworthy.

We view science communication as a dialogue-based process: we contextualise research, make findings transparent and create spaces for exchange between science, culture and society. Key components include public event formats and accessible initiatives such as workshops, science slams and podcasts. Through the WissKomm Academy, we professionalise science communication by providing skills training for researchers and fostering a reflective approach to dealing with controversy, disinformation and digital spaces. In addition, we recognise excellence in science journalism with an academy award.

The WissKomm Academy Centre of Excellence

The WissKomm Academy is the centre of excellence for science communication at the Academy of Sciences and Literature | Mainz, funded by the Rhineland-Palatinate Ministry of Science and Health. It brings together knowledge and ideas relating to the communication of scientific content and provides a dialogue-based approach to understanding the mechanisms, opportunities and challenges involved. As part of its skills training programme, researchers at all career stages learn strategies and methods to strengthen and professionalise their science communication. At the same time, the WissKomm Academy creates a space for exchange between science, the media, politics and society, and recognises outstanding science journalism.

Learn more

Science communication in the Academies Programme

Science communication also plays a central role in the projects of the Academies Programme. Staff present the progress and results of their projects to the public through a variety of event and communication formats. Such findings play an important role in understanding current societal challenges. Furthermore, regionally based projects in particular, such as the German Inscriptions, offer the opportunity to reach citizens who feel less engaged by traditional communication formats, and to invite them to actively participate in shaping science through citizen science approaches. To strengthen and professionalise science communication within the Academies Programme, the WissKomm Academy’s skills training programme will also be offered within the Academies Programme from 2026 onwards via four additional academies.

The Mainz Science Alliance

The Academy is a member of the Mainz Science Alliance (MWA). This network brings together universities, research institutions and innovative companies from Mainz and the surrounding area to promote dialogue between research and society. The Mainz Science Alliance organises joint events in the field of science communication, including the annual Science Market, where the Academy and the other member institutions present themselves and their projects to the public. As part of the MWA’s Young Science Working Group, led by the coordinator of the Young Academy | Mainz, a particular focus is placed on supporting early-career researchers through joint events such as science slams.

2025 Annual Report - Theme Year: “People and Learning”

Events

Show all

Discover more Subject Areas

Digital Research

Sustainably shaping the digital transformation through innovative methods.

Biotechnology

Strengthening the biotechnology hub: science, technology, business, excellence, and future potential.

Aldous Huxley Future Forum

A central academy format for interdisciplinary debates on issues of the future—ranging from AI to bioethics, migration, education, and freedom.

Kulturelles Erbe – kulturelles Leben

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam…

Music

Through interdisciplinary research, music bridges tradition and innovation and fosters dialogue between science, art, and society.