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Science up close: Hamburg researchers conquer the schools!
The University of Hamburg is presenting lectures in schools as part of “We want to know”: dates in January and February 2026.
Science up close: Hamburg researchers conquer the schools!
Scientists from the University of Hamburg visit schools to present their research. The program is entitled “We want to know” and was initiated to promote dialogue between the university and the public. This year the format will be extended in time so that school classes in grades 9 and above have the opportunity to listen to lectures for two weeks. These events are free for schools and can be booked via the university's homepage.
The lectures will take place in two periods: between January 19th and 23rd and February 2nd and 6th, 2026. A total of around 60 speakers will present various topics on 188 dates in schools. The subject areas range from biology, chemistry and earth sciences to history, computer science, mathematics, politics, society and economics, philosophy, physics, psychology, religion and languages. Individual lectures are also suitable for grades 7 and 8. This format has been offered since 2018 and includes scientists from the university, the German Electron Synchrotron, the University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf and the Leibniz Institute for Virology. The project is funded by the federal and state governments' Excellence Strategy uni-hamburg.de reported.
Science communication is key
A central aspect of science communication is to promote trust between science and society. The German Research Foundation (DFG) sees it as the task of publicly funded research to inform the general public about its findings. This transparent presentation of research is intended to ensure that scientific findings are incorporated into social decision-making processes.
The DFG defines science communication as a dialogue between science and external target groups. It shows what scientific work involves, which topics and methods are used and what contribution science can make to answering social questions. The DFG not only supports science communication financially, but also through events, exhibitions and online formats. She is also involved in overarching initiatives to further develop science communication, such as the BMBF's Science Years and as a partner in “Wissenschaft im Dialog” and the Futurium in Berlin dfg.de clarified.
Further training opportunities for scientists
In order to strengthen the skills of scientists in communication work, numerous training courses are provided. One notable course, whose registration deadline was October 13, 2025, is entitled “Basics of Science Communication,” offers contributions in German and English and will take place on several dates in October and November 2025. Another course, "Engage, Enlighten, Entertain. Presenting Your Work to Non-Scientists," will be offered in English on November 19, 2025.
In addition, various e-learning formats will be offered, including “Social Media in Science Communication” in January 2026 and “LinkedIn for Researchers” in February 2026. The program also includes specialized workshops, such as “Podcasting about Science” and “Scientific Poster Lab”. These initiatives of the hra-hamburg.de are designed to improve scientists' ability to present their work in an understandable and engaging manner to a broad audience.
Such measures promote mutual exchange between science and society. This is important not only for scientists, but also for the public, who should benefit from scientific findings.