Register Now: Social Impact in a World on Fire
DATE: TUE 14. APRIL 2026
TIME: 13.00-15.00
LOCATION: SOFIA CULTURAL CENTER, Kallvikinniementie 35, 00980 Helsinki (exact room will be announced later) Map
EVENT LANGUAGE: English
IN-PERSON ONLY
How can researchers boost the social impact of their work in a world in turmoil? While research aims at objectivity and neutrality, it does not operate in a vacuum. We experience the effects of geopolitical changes, conflicts, climate change, environmental issues and biodiversity loss on a professional and personal level. In this event hosted by the Safer Climate network, we discuss possible ways for researchers to act as changemakers while maintaining their professional integrity, personal well-being and meaningfulness of the work.
The event is organized as a part of the 5th annual ACCC Impact Week that brings together researchers and stakeholders from different fields. The event is open and free of cost. Note that this seminar is in-person only and registration is required and happens via ACCC Impact Week registration form.
PROGRAMME
Introduction
Rosa Rantanen
Safer Climate, Institute for Atmosphere and Earth System Research (INAR), ACCC, University of Helsinki
Research Results from the DECA Project
Marko Ampuja
Professor, DECA Research Consortium
Introducing the Environmental Researchers’ Advocacy Network
Anni Arponen
Ympäristötutkijoiden vaikuttamisverkosto - Environmental researchers’ advocacy network
Artists with Evidence: Lessons from Art-Science Collaborations
Inês Montalvão
Program Director, Artists with Evidence
Scientist Rebellion: Activism as a Form of Social Impact for Researchers?
Nadja Verspagen & Krista Raveala
Scientist Rebellion Finland
Joint Discussion
Speakers and discussion topics include different ways to create research-based impact, such as science diplomacy, environmental activism and science-art collaboration. The opening talk includes examples of studies that look into researchers' views and experiences related to social impact. The main target group of the session are researchers and students from different disciplines and people who (wish to) work with social impact of science but the session is suitable for anyone interested in social impact and transdisciplinary collaboration. The aim is to provide tools for researchers to understand and utilize their multiple roles in societal discussion regarding climate change and the environment.